George Harrison, the “Quiet Beatle,” cemented his legendary status not just through music, but also by demonstrating remarkable generosity and foresight. He famously funded Monty Python’s Life of Brian after EMI Films withdrew their support, stepping in as an angel investor and ultimately saving the film from oblivion.
The Genesis of a Risky Investment
The story of George Harrison’s involvement with Life of Brian is one of audacious risk-taking, unwavering support for artistic freedom, and a healthy dose of absurdity. It highlights a pivotal moment when a rock and roll icon became an unlikely film producer, driven by a simple desire to see a film he believed in come to fruition. Harrison, a devout spiritual seeker himself, surprisingly saw the comedic value and satirical brilliance within the Python’s controversial script.
EMI’s Sudden Withdrawal
The troubles began just days before filming was slated to commence in Tunisia. EMI Films, the studio initially backing Life of Brian, abruptly pulled out. Bernard Delfont, head of EMI, reportedly had second thoughts after reviewing the script, succumbing to pressure and fearing potential public backlash due to the film’s satirical portrayal of religion. This left the Python crew stranded and scrambling for funds. The film, already significantly pre-sold to distributors, teetered on the brink of cancellation. The loss of EMI’s investment placed immediate and immense financial pressure on the entire production.
Harrison’s “Most Expensive Cinema Ticket”
Enter George Harrison. Terry Gilliam, a member of the Monty Python troupe, recalls approaching Harrison with a plea for help. Harrison, a long-time Python fan, saw the film’s potential and, crucially, possessed the financial resources to intervene. He famously quipped that Life of Brian was “the most expensive cinema ticket anyone has ever bought,” as he essentially put up the money to ensure the film’s completion. He mortgaged his house to raise the £3 million (approximately $4 million USD at the time, a substantial sum) needed to cover the budget shortfall. This wasn’t a calculated business decision; it was an act of genuine belief in the Pythons’ unique brand of comedy and a refusal to see their artistic vision stifled. Harrison understood the risks involved, but he also recognized the potential for Life of Brian to become a landmark cinematic achievement.
The Formation of HandMade Films
Harrison’s intervention led to the creation of HandMade Films, a production company he co-founded with Denis O’Brien. HandMade Films went on to produce a string of successful and critically acclaimed films throughout the 1980s, solidifying Harrison’s legacy as a significant figure in the British film industry. These films were often unconventional and artistically driven, reflecting Harrison’s own independent spirit.
Beyond Life of Brian: HandMade’s Impact
HandMade Films became known for supporting projects that larger studios were hesitant to embrace. Films like Time Bandits (also directed by Terry Gilliam), The Long Good Friday, and Withnail and I were all produced under the HandMade Films banner. Harrison’s vision for HandMade was to provide a platform for independent filmmakers and to nurture creative talent outside the mainstream. The studio’s success demonstrated the viability of independent film production in the UK and paved the way for future generations of filmmakers. The very name, HandMade, was a statement about the personalized, artist-centric approach they wished to embody.
The Legacy of a Quiet Benefactor
George Harrison’s contribution to Life of Brian and the subsequent success of HandMade Films cemented his reputation as a supporter of the arts and a champion of independent creativity. He rarely sought publicity for his involvement, preferring to remain a quiet benefactor, allowing the films themselves to speak for his commitment to artistic expression. His actions served as an example of how individuals with resources can make a tangible difference in supporting and promoting creative endeavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about George Harrison’s involvement with Life of Brian and HandMade Films:
H3: Why did EMI pull out of funding Life of Brian?
EMI Films withdrew its funding for Life of Brian due to concerns about the film’s potentially controversial content. The studio feared that the film’s satirical take on religion would lead to public protests and damage EMI’s reputation. Studio head Bernard Delfont in particular, became uncomfortable with the script’s potential to offend religious audiences.
H3: How did George Harrison get involved with Monty Python?
George Harrison was a long-time fan of Monty Python’s comedy. He was approached by Terry Gilliam, a member of the Python troupe, who knew of Harrison’s interest in their work and his financial capacity to help. Harrison saw the value in their script and decided to invest in the film.
H3: How much money did George Harrison invest in Life of Brian?
George Harrison invested approximately £3 million (around $4 million USD at the time) in Life of Brian. This was a substantial sum and required him to mortgage his house to raise the necessary capital. It was a significant personal and financial risk he took to support the film.
H3: What is HandMade Films?
HandMade Films was a production company co-founded by George Harrison and Denis O’Brien. It was created specifically to produce Life of Brian after EMI pulled out. It subsequently became a successful independent film production company, known for supporting unconventional and artistically driven films.
H3: What other films did HandMade Films produce?
HandMade Films produced a number of critically acclaimed and commercially successful films, including Time Bandits, The Long Good Friday, Withnail and I, Mona Lisa, and Shanghai Surprise. These films showcase the breadth and diversity of HandMade’s filmography.
H3: Did George Harrison make a profit from Life of Brian and HandMade Films?
While Life of Brian was a box office success, HandMade Films experienced financial difficulties later in its history. The company was eventually sold in the 1990s. Harrison’s motivation was not primarily financial gain, but rather a desire to support artistic endeavors he believed in.
H3: Was George Harrison credited as a producer on Life of Brian?
Yes, George Harrison is credited as an executive producer on Life of Brian. This acknowledges his crucial role in securing the funding that enabled the film to be made.
H3: What was George Harrison’s role within HandMade Films beyond providing funding?
While Harrison primarily provided financial backing, he also played a role in selecting projects and offering creative input. He had a strong sense of artistic quality and was actively involved in shaping HandMade’s filmography. His presence as a respected artist gave the company credibility and attracted talented filmmakers.
H3: Did the controversy surrounding Life of Brian affect George Harrison’s decision to fund it?
The controversy surrounding Life of Brian did not deter George Harrison from funding the film. In fact, some speculate that it may have even strengthened his resolve, as he believed in supporting artistic freedom even in the face of potential backlash.
H3: Why is George Harrison’s contribution to Life of Brian considered so significant?
George Harrison’s contribution is considered significant because he single-handedly saved Life of Brian from being shelved. Without his intervention, the film would likely never have been made, and the world would have been deprived of a comedic masterpiece.
H3: What happened to HandMade Films after George Harrison sold it?
After George Harrison sold HandMade Films in the 1990s, the company continued to operate under new ownership. However, it faced further financial difficulties and eventually went into administration. The HandMade Films library of titles is now owned by different entities.
H3: How does George Harrison’s involvement with Life of Brian reflect his personality and values?
George Harrison’s involvement with Life of Brian reflects his generosity, his support for artistic expression, his independent spirit, and his sense of humor. He was a man who was willing to take risks to support projects he believed in, even if they were controversial. This event solidifies his reputation as a thoughtful and generous patron of the arts.