Yes, George Harrison played a pivotal role in the making of Monty Python’s Life of Brian. He effectively mortgaged his home to finance the film after its original backers withdrew due to concerns about the satirical treatment of religion, making him, in essence, the film’s unlikely savior.
The Genesis of a Controversial Comedy
Life of Brian, released in 1979, is a comedy film by the British comedy group Monty Python, telling the story of Brian Cohen, born in Bethlehem in a stable next door to Jesus Christ. His life is subsequently plagued by mistaken identity, leading him to be unwillingly swept up into a political movement and ultimately crucified. The film immediately sparked controversy, accused of blasphemy and facing bans in several countries. The controversy, however, didn’t prevent it from becoming a cult classic and a box office success, largely thanks to an extraordinary intervention.
The EMI Funding Fiasco
The story begins not with laughter, but with financial anxieties. EMI Films, initially on board to fund Life of Brian, abruptly pulled out just days before filming was scheduled to begin. John Goldstone, the film’s producer, had been working tirelessly to secure the financing. He faced a daunting scenario: a script ready to go, a cast and crew assembled, but no money to actually shoot the film. The reason given by EMI chairman, Bernard Delfont, was that he had read the script and found it “blasphemous,” refusing to fund what he perceived as an attack on religion.
Harrison’s “Most Expensive Cinema Ticket”
Enter George Harrison, the former Beatle known for his spirituality and, perhaps less well-known, his passion for cinema and the Monty Python team. Harrison, a long-time fan, had previously appeared in their television series and understood their unique brand of humor. He attended a screening of Monty Python and the Holy Grail, and, captivated by its humor, offered to help finance their next project. When Life of Brian faced its funding crisis, Goldstone reached out to Harrison.
Harrison, driven by his desire to see the film made (he famously quipped that he wanted to see the film so badly he mortgaged his house), stepped in. He established HandMade Films specifically to finance Life of Brian. This act of faith, driven by personal passion and a belief in the Python’s creative vision, proved crucial to the film’s completion and subsequent success. It’s estimated that Harrison invested around $4 million in the film, a considerable sum at the time. As he joked later, it was “the most expensive cinema ticket in history.”
The Legacy of HandMade Films
HandMade Films, born out of the Life of Brian crisis, went on to become a significant force in British cinema. The company produced a diverse range of films, including Time Bandits, Withnail and I, and Mona Lisa. Many of these films were critically acclaimed and financially successful, further solidifying Harrison’s reputation as a discerning and supportive patron of the arts.
However, HandMade Films also faced financial difficulties in its later years, ultimately being sold off. Despite the eventual challenges, its impact on British cinema remains undeniable, largely owing to its improbable genesis as a vehicle for Life of Brian. Harrison’s investment provided the platform for countless filmmakers and artists to bring their visions to life.
FAQs: Unpacking the George Harrison Life of Brian Story
Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate George Harrison’s involvement with Life of Brian:
FAQ 1: How did George Harrison know the Monty Python team?
George Harrison first encountered the Monty Python team in the early 1970s. He was a dedicated fan of their television show, Monty Python’s Flying Circus, and even made a cameo appearance in one episode, playing a grumpy bank manager. This initial connection blossomed into a strong friendship and a mutual appreciation for each other’s work.
FAQ 2: Why did EMI pull out of financing Life of Brian at the last minute?
EMI’s chairman, Bernard Delfont, reviewed the Life of Brian script and deemed it blasphemous. He feared the potential public outcry and negative impact on EMI’s reputation, deciding to withdraw funding mere days before production was scheduled to commence. This decision left the Python team in a precarious financial situation.
FAQ 3: What exactly did George Harrison do to finance the film?
George Harrison essentially mortgaged his home, Friar Park, to secure the necessary funds to produce Life of Brian. He established HandMade Films as the vehicle for this investment. He personally guaranteed the loan, putting his personal assets at risk to ensure the film could be made.
FAQ 4: Was Life of Brian a commercial success?
Despite the initial controversy and bans in several countries, Life of Brian was a significant commercial success. It grossed over $20 million in the United States alone, making it one of Monty Python’s most successful films. The film’s controversial nature arguably contributed to its notoriety and box office draw.
FAQ 5: What other films did HandMade Films produce?
Besides Life of Brian, HandMade Films produced a diverse catalog of films, including Terry Gilliam’s Time Bandits, Bruce Robinson’s Withnail and I, Neil Jordan’s Mona Lisa, and the comedy Shanghai Surprise starring Madonna and Sean Penn. The company supported a range of independent and unconventional films, contributing significantly to British cinema.
FAQ 6: Did George Harrison make a profit from Life of Brian?
While Harrison’s primary motivation was to see the film made, HandMade Films did eventually recoup its investment in Life of Brian. The film’s commercial success ensured that Harrison wasn’t left out of pocket. However, his initial investment was driven by passion rather than profit.
FAQ 7: How did the Monty Python team react to Harrison’s intervention?
The Monty Python team was immensely grateful for George Harrison’s support. They recognized that without his intervention, Life of Brian would likely never have been made. They often expressed their gratitude publicly and maintained a close relationship with Harrison throughout his life.
FAQ 8: Was Life of Brian banned in any countries? If so, where and why?
Yes, Life of Brian was banned in several countries, including Ireland, Norway, and some cities in the UK. The bans were primarily due to concerns about blasphemy and the film’s satirical portrayal of religious figures. The film was perceived by some as mocking Christianity, leading to protests and censorship.
FAQ 9: Is Life of Brian considered blasphemous today?
While Life of Brian remains controversial for some, its perception has largely softened over time. It is now widely regarded as a classic comedy film that satirizes religious fanaticism rather than attacking religion itself. Its comedic value and social commentary are more appreciated in contemporary society.
FAQ 10: What is the key message or satire behind Life of Brian?
The central satire in Life of Brian is aimed at unquestioning faith, the dangers of following charismatic leaders blindly, and the absurdities of religious and political dogma. The film uses humor to explore themes of identity, free will, and the potential for misinterpretation of religious teachings.
FAQ 11: How did George Harrison’s spirituality influence his decision to fund Life of Brian?
Despite the film’s controversial religious themes, Harrison’s own deep spirituality likely played a role in his decision to fund it. He believed in the importance of free expression and recognized the Python’s satirical intent. He saw the film not as an attack on faith, but as a commentary on the human tendency to misinterpret and misuse religious beliefs.
FAQ 12: What happened to HandMade Films after George Harrison sold it?
After facing financial difficulties, George Harrison sold HandMade Films to Paragon Entertainment Corporation in 1994. Paragon subsequently went into receivership, and the rights to HandMade’s film catalog were sold to various companies. The legacy of HandMade Films continues to be celebrated, particularly its role in supporting independent and British cinema.