Monty Python’s Life of Brian (1979) and Talk by Dr. Richard Ascough

Hosted by The Cinema Society of Kingston.

Saturday April 19 at 1pm: Join us on Easter Weekend for a special screening of Monty Python’s cult comedy, accompanied by a talk & discussion from Dr. Richard Ascough, a Professor of Christian Origins at Queen University’s School of Religion.  The film will play without an introduction on April 20, 22 & 24.

About the Guest Speaker

Richard Ascough is a Professor in the School of Religion at Queen’s University. His research and teaching focuses on the history of early Christianity and Greco-Roman religious cultures; his work is part of a larger movement that is exploring modern theories of Christian origins. He has been recognized for his innovative and effective teaching in many ways, including the two top teaching awards at Queen’s University and a 3M National Teaching Fellowship. He also teaches courses on “Religion and Film” and he did a Cinema Society talk with Jesus Christ Superstar last Easter… we’re thrilled to welcome him back!

ABOUT THE FILM: Brian Cohen (Graham Chapman) 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 (Terry Jones), the hapless Brian has to contend with the pompous Pontius Pilate (Michael Palin) 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.

It’s still extremely funny, as quotable now as it ever was, and as searingly, eye-openingly intelligent. – Time Out