Long before crowdfunding allowed films that still had little commercial potential to be made, the feature film that is now considered a cult benefited from a generous donor. This film is The Life of Brian, the third comedy film conceived and produced by Monty Python.
The Beatles to the rescue
This new opus from the British group follows the adventures of Brian, a poor boy who has the misfortune of being born on the same night as Jesus. Confused by the three kings with Christ, his entire existence would result in a messiah he is not and certainly does not want to be.
The film takes the form of a parodic pastiche, not against the Christian religion, but against religious fanaticism. Despite all this, The Life of Brian was almost never made after the withdrawal of the production company EMI Films, who found the subject of the film too controversial.
But the feature film was able to count on the intervention of George Harrison. Close to Monty Python, the latter was able to obtain a copy of the script he loved. So, because he wanted to see the film on the big screen, the ex-Beatles did not hesitate to mortgage his property to raise the necessary £5 million.
George Harrison (image center) in Life of Brian
George Harrison was indebted to Monty Python
With his characteristic sense of humor, George Harrison later described this investment “The Most Expensive Movie Ticket Ever Purchased”. His generosity was rewarded by Monty Python appearing in a silent role for a few seconds.
When asked by Eric Idle about his reasons for acting, the musician revealed that Monty Python sketches helped him keep his spirits up after the Beatles broke up a few years earlier. “I Owed You” Afterward, he said in comments reported by Life of Brian director Terry Jones.
Monty Python’s The Life of Brian will leave the Netflix catalog on October 31.
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Source: Allocine
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
