For this week, I want to post something which I never knew existed, but is freaking spectacular. In 1979, when Monty Python's Life of Brian was going into theaters, there were a lot of Christian folk who were offended. The movie, which follows a young man, Brian, whose life takes plenty of twists and turns at the time of Jesus's rise in popularity and eventual crucifixion, does not pull any punches.
The movie doesn't mock Jesus, but it does create parallel moments in which Monty Python inputs 1979 reaction and rationality into first century Biblical sorties. It does mock the people of the time, a prime example being the people at the Sermon on the Mount who were late, and hence were not near the front. Also there is an all time classic scene with their version of Pontius Pilate who happens to have an unfortunate speech impediment. Regardless, nuance is throw out when people feel their religion is being attacked. The movie was banned in many communities.
Sometimes it's fun to go revisit historical moments, and 40 years ago, John Cleese and Michael Palin headed to the British show "Friday Night, Saturday Morning" for a discussion on the movie. Joining them for the discussion is the Bishop of Southwark Melvyn Stockwood and a noted Chrisitan Malcolm Muggeridge. To say this gets heated is an understatement. This is almost a precursor of what we consider modern political discussion.
I highly enjoy the first part which is a fantastic look into the creative and decision making process of the film. Cleese at the beginning of part two makes a very good point about the final scene and what it was actually portraying.
Both sides do make good points, although the 'pro-church' side does come across near hysterical at times. It's the poise and determination of Cleese and Palin which is a joy to witness. They fiercely defend their work, pointing out the church's failures and hypocrisy at getting so furious over a fictional comedy movie. The 'pro-church' side's promise of how Monty Python's Life of Brian will soon be a long forgotten cultural waste is woefully off. Their insistence people shouldn't see the movie drove people to the theaters. Oops.
I've let my kids watch it (minus the Brian reveal scene) and they think it's hilarious.
This is long, but worth it. It's in four parts. Music at the end!
Have a great weekend everyone. See you at the Blue State Ball!
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