Apparently, organisers of the festival held a poll to see what comedy film Torbay residents considered their favorite, and Brian took top honors. Back in the day, Torbay's regional government disagreed with the film's rating, which would have allowed the under-18 set to watch it. But times change, and so do licensing laws, which have rendered the old ruling "null and void." Torbay's fine citizens will finally be able to treat their funny bones to a lisping Pontius Pilate, the perils of being mistaken for the Messiah, an assortment of improbable-but-hilarious Roman names, and a chipper musical number about always looking on the bright side of life even if you happen to be doomed to death.

If Torbay can change its mind about banning The Life of Brian, might the day come when others follow suit? Might Vatican City someday hold a special screening of The DaVinci Code? Don't hold your breath--you'll need it to laugh.