Exercise the gray matter and render me an opinion. Is Monty Python's movie Life of Brian a mockery of Christ's life, or is it merely non-malicious (if slightly naughty) humor employing Christological elements?
I have never seen this movie, except for an excerpt - the Latin lesson that the centurion gives Brian (which, if you know Latin, is hilarious). I have heard both of these opinions from friends whose judgment I respect. Does anyone know what the deal is? Not that I'm planning on going and watching it, but the Hoff is showing it for free on campus, apparently, which is why people are talking about it.
Apparently, after the success of Holy Grail, the Python gang was asked what was next, and they jokingly responded that they were going to do the life of Christ. On the one hand, I think it is totally within the character of most of them to attack organized religion and the Church. On the other hand, I think they wisely inserted scenes of Christ as being a noble character separate from the Brian schtick. That is, even if it does attack Christianity, it does so as good satire should...in such a way that the target can appreciate the intelligence and wit of the satirist, while also recognizing the genuine points for critique. Whether or not Christ existed, it's clear that many people have erroneously created false images and idols of Christ out of a desire to believe in something...and that those false versions lead to absurd and often violent consequences. Unlike Dogma or the DaVinci Code, the writers were wise enough to give honest believers a backdoor within the film itself. That being said, I would NOT recommend this movie for everyone.
Posted by: PeterTerp | December 10, 2006 at 11:52 PM