Religious satire films have a difficult job. Of all of the topics for a film to cover, religion is perhaps the most widely held belief system (specifically Christianity in the West) that is both easily offended and simultaneously has a power structure behind it to silence, or at least try to silence, media that it disagrees with. Fortunately, most groups or companies that create religious satire seek to last out at this structure to begin with, and have no qualms about experiencing pushback. Monty Python is no exception with their film Life of Bryon. However, the film takes an interesting perspective, as it barely deals with Christinanity specifically at all. Jesus is only seen once, from afar, at the very beginning of the film. Instead, the entirely of the movie tracks Bryon, whose life parallels Jesus’ in nearly every way with the exception of the fact that his consideration as the “messiah” was completely accidental and unintentional. In fact, Bryon was quite clear that he was not the Messiah.
Clearly, the film did not aim to criticize any specific aspect of Christianity, but instead the blatant absurdity of the entire basis of the religion. It seems to nod to the fact that people will follow anyone who gives them hope and good news. Perhaps Bryon, is his completely accidental founding of a religion, mirrored Jesus in actuality. Though there is, of course, little proof in the truth of such a comedic film, but the film proposes at least the comedic value of such an idea. And it definitely caused stirs within the greater Christian community as a result.It accomplished its humor rather brilliantly as well. Though mostly low brow, the film was hilarious to watch and appealed to a wide audience. It has not retained its controversial nature. If Life of Bryon were made today, there would potentially be little to no controversy. Society today has become significantly desensitized to more mild comedic enterprises such as this movie.