Alternate versions

The Criterion LD/DVD features the following deleted scenes:

• A scene with three shepherds in the beginning of the film.
• A scene featuring the Peoples Front of Judea breaking into Pilate's wife's bedroom, only to be defeated by her strength.
• A scene introducing us and Brian to the suicide squad, led by King Otto (Idle).
• A scene showing Judith releasing doves that fly out over Nazareth, and that are spotted by Otto and interpreted as "the sign that is the sign". He sends his troops into town.
• A very brief scene showing Judith watching Brian carrying his cross through the streets; she is attacked by a salesman who wants her to haggle, resulting in her leaving.

The film was originally over two hours long, but was edited down after audience previews. Amongst the scenes that were cut were an opening sequence in which the three shepherds attend the birth of Brian, and more scenes featuring King Otto, some of which were restored for the DVD release.