Is comedy about religion funny? Fair game? Inappropriate? Why?
Borat and Brüno both touch on this question, but the Pythons and other modern British comedians hit the subject a bit harder. The Pythons, for example, let the Roman Catholics have it in Every Sperm is Sacred, a musical number from their feature-length film The Meaning of Life.
Every Sperm is Sacred (YouTube)
And in their feature-length film The Life of Brian, the entire movie takes the Christ story and has a field day. The movie closes with a tap number on crucifixes:
Always Look on the Bright Side of Life (YouTube)
Ricky Gervais also uses religion as a backdrop for both some of his sketch and stand-up comedy. In Extras, the premise is that he and the other regulars on the show are "extras" in various movie productions. Big-name stars are brought through as guests: in this episode, Kate Winslet (appearing as a nun) provides very un-nun-like advice.
Kate Winslet in Extras (YouTube)
And, lastly, a piece of his stand-up work. Specifically, having a bit of a go at the Bible.
Ricky Gervais on Genesis (YouTube)
Lastly, on the subject of the Snake, Rowan Atkinson gives us the Devil sorting the sinful as they enter Hell.
Feel free to bring in examples you find elsewhere to add to the discussion—whether it is funny and fair game or not. If there is interest, we can organize a viewing of Life of Brian, which is typically rated as Britian's most favorite comedic film.
