COM 3950 FILM & PERFORMANCE

ANALYSIS PAPER #8     "MONTY PYTHON'S LIFE OF BRIAN"

DUE DATE: 11/22/04

Please refer to the film's script posted on my VU homepage to answer the following:

1. There is a brilliant subtext written into this script that compares aspects of British culture to the culture of first century Judea during the Roman occupation.. Identify this subtext and how was it conveyed by the Monty Python troupe in the film? Cite 5 examples from the script. You may copy and paste your excerpts.

2. If you were directing a British reworking of The Producers and could cast only from members of Monty Python, whom (cite names) would you select and why for the following roles:

            a. Leo Bloom

            b. Max Bialystock

            c. Roger DeBris

            d. L.S.D.

            e. Franz Leibkind

            f. Little Old Lady ( "Hold me! Touch me!")

            g. Ulla the Secretary .... I'll give you this one, it has to be Carol Cleveland.

3. If you were going to cast Gene Wilder and Zero Mostel in Life of Brian, which roles would you give them and why?