Life of Brian
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78% Critic Match

Life of Brian

He's not the messiah...he's just a naughty boy.

7.8 / 10 1979 1h 34mR English
Comedy

Storyline

Brian Cohen is an average young Jewish man, but through a series of ridiculous events, he gains a reputation as the Messiah. When he's not dodging his followers or being scolded by his shrill mother, the hapless Brian has to contend with the pompous Pontius Pilate and acronym-obsessed members of a separatist movement. Rife with Monty Python's signature absurdity, the tale finds Brian's life paralleling Biblical lore, albeit with many more laughs.

Cast & Crew

Graham Chapman

Graham Chapman

Wise Man #2 / Brian Cohen / Biggus Dickus

Lead
John Cleese

John Cleese

Wise Man #1 / Reg / Jewish Official / First Centurion / Deadly Dirk / Arthur

Terry Gilliam

Terry Gilliam

Man Even Further Forward / Revolutionary / Jailer / Blood and Thunder Prophet / Frank / Audience Member / Crucifee

Eric Idle

Eric Idle

Mr. Cheeky / Stan 'Loretta' / Harry the Haggler / Culprit Woman / Warris / Intensely Dull Youth / Jailer's Assistant / Otto / Lead Singer Crucifee

Terry Jones

Terry Jones

Mandy Cohen / Colin / Simon the Holy Man / Bob Hoskins / Saintly Passer-by / Alarmed Crucifixion Assistant

Michael Palin

Michael Palin

Wise Man #3 / Mr. Big Nose / Francis / Mrs. A / Ex-Leper / Announcer / Ben / Pontius Pilate / Boring Prophet / Eddie / Shoe Follower / Nisus Wettus

Terence Bayler

Terence Bayler

Gregory

Carol Cleveland

Carol Cleveland

Mrs. Gregory

What People Are Saying

4.0
A staggering achievement of craft and ambition. Terry Jones's vision lands with breathtaking precision.
Manohla Dargis, The New York Times
4.0
Every frame feels alive. Life of Brian is the rare release that takes its audience seriously.
Anthony Lane, The New Yorker