Life of Brian (1979)

Kernel Score: 87% · 4,828 ratings · Rated R

Genres: Comedy

Released: 1979-08-17

Runtime: 94 minutes

Is Life of Brian worth watching?

Must-watch. A man mistaken for the Messiah can't get rid of his followers. It's a sharp, silly satire of blind devotion, and Monty Python's best-regarded feature still gets laughs.

Watch it if you

  • like absurd, quotable British comedy
  • enjoy satire of religion and politics
  • love Monty Python

Skip it if you

  • don't like irreverent comedy
  • are bothered by jokes about religion

Best for: Late-night laughs

Fresh Kernels verdict, AI-assisted from our scores, audience reviews and the official rating.

Where to watch Life of Brian

US availability, updated 2026-10-23.

Overview

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.

Life of Brian parents' guide: ages 15+

Parents need to know that this R-rated satire pokes fun at religious devotion and includes crude, irreverent humor.

  • Language: Moderate — Irreverent, satirical humor includes crude language typical of Monty Python's style.

Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official R rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.

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Director

Terry Jones

Cast

  • Graham Chapman as Wise Man #2 / Brian Cohen / Biggus Dickus
  • John Cleese as Wise Man #1 / Reg / Jewish Official / First Centurion / Deadly Dirk / Arthur
  • Terry Gilliam as Man Even Further Forward / Revolutionary / Jailer / Blood and Thunder Prophet / Frank / Audience Member / Crucifee
  • Eric Idle as Mr. Cheeky / Stan 'Loretta' / Harry the Haggler / Culprit Woman / Warris / Intensely Dull Youth / Jailer's Assistant / Otto / Lead Singer Crucifee
  • Terry Jones as Mandy Cohen / Colin / Simon the Holy Man / Bob Hoskins / Saintly Passer-by / Alarmed Crucifixion Assistant
  • Michael Palin as Wise Man #3 / Mr. Big Nose / Francis / Mrs. A / Ex-Leper / Announcer / Ben / Pontius Pilate / Boring Prophet / Eddie / Shoe Follower / Nisus Wettus
  • Terence Bayler as Gregory
  • Carol Cleveland as Mrs. Gregory
  • Kenneth Colley as Jesus
  • Neil Innes as A Weedy Samaritan

Life of Brian FAQ

Is Life of Brian worth watching?

Must-watch. A man mistaken for the Messiah can't get rid of his followers. It's a sharp, silly satire of blind devotion, and Monty Python's best-regarded feature still gets laughs.

Where can I watch Life of Brian?

In the US you can stream Life of Brian on Prime Video, Fubo, Peacock and TCM, watch it free with ads on The CW, Kanopy, Fawesome, The Roku Channel and Pluto TV and rent it from Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play and YouTube.

Is Life of Brian OK for kids?

Life of Brian is rated R. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 15+. Parents need to know that this R-rated satire pokes fun at religious devotion and includes crude, irreverent humor.

What movies are like Life of Brian?

If you liked Life of Brian, try Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Monty Python's The Meaning of Life, The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad! and PK.