According to this page (scroll about two thirds of the way down):
This film was initially banned in Norway for blasphemy. It wasn't released there until 1980. Subsequently, it has been marketed in Sweden as "The film that is so funny that it was banned in Norway!"
This reviewer makes some good points (particularly re: casting) although he is also a bit of a ranter/arm-waver. I came away from the film(s) thinking they were good; this gave me pause for thought and I've modified my views somewhat.
I wonder how many people will be able to quote huge sections of Mel's film in twenty years.
http://exile.ru/182/182061202.html