Monty Python's Life of Brian (1979)

The greatest religious satire ever made—and arguably the funniest British film, earning a 95% Rotten Tomatoes score from 66 reviews. Banned in several countries on release, it follows Brian Cohen, a reluctant messiah born in the stable next door to the Nativity. Poking fun at blind devotion while respecting belief, it remains sharper than the average modern comedy—its box office of $20 million (on $4 million budget) shows lasting appeal. Still courageously funny after 45 years.