A brand-new production of the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice classic musical, "Jesus Christ Superstar" tells the story of the last seven days in the life of Jesus. It describes his entry into Jerusalem, the enmity that his preaching and his popularity causes among the Jewish religious leaders, his betrayal by Judas, mocking contempt of Herod, and the trial in front of Pontius Pilate, who despite his sympathy towards Jesus as a person, bows to the demands of Caiaphas, the Chief Priest, and has him crucified.
1 Oh dear...well not a total disaster
This is actually a fairly bloodless, passionless retelling of JCS. The singing in general leaves much to be desired. The directing is fairly bland and unimaginative. To be honest just decorating a set and costuming it in a new and different way does not a directorial vision make. Acting is generally weak and the choreography is ridiculous.
Skip this and see Norman Jewison's version instead.
2 A Great Spiritual Journey not for "CHICKENS"
For those seeking new, fresh, and challenging ways to experience the possibilities of our "Jesus," this stands out as a FIVE STAR event. There were two specific variances that make this my absolute favorite, even over the earlier version I saw on stage and in film. The close-up photography stands in contrast to the earlier version which was groundbreaking in its own time. This allows viewers to experience Jesus and His followers in a dramatic new way. We see the joy, sadness, confusion, and fear of those last days. And, we also see a tortured Judas who eventually gives way to the dark side. I love the portrayal of a man who was a dear friend of Jesus but a real rascal and betrayer of our Saviour. This film is a must for all who can leave their rigid, ultraconservative agendas in the closet. So, go for it!
3 Homosexual Jesus???
What on Earth did the director do with the characters???? Great staging, costuming, updating, and fantastic vocal performances can't possibly compensate for the homosexual like interaction of Jesus and the apostles. Either the woman director has an agenda she's pushing, or she simply has no idea about the way men relate and interact with each other. One can't watch the scenes between Judas and Jesus without believing the two are 'breaking up'... It's simply painful to watch.
The priests and guards are totally cool, Pilate is great, Simon Zealots is a tremendous improvement over anything done before, but... Jesus STILL ISN'T GAY - and shouldn't act like it!!
The play LOOKS great, but because Jesus interacts with the disciples like he's dating them, it destroys everything else in the musical.
4 Jerome Pradon is AMAZING!
What caught my attention to Jesus Christ Superstar was the commercial of it on the previews of the Cats video. I then rented the film version and loved every minute of it. I then was ready to watch this version and was blown away even more than what the film had to offer. I have heard many people say Jerome Pradon was a horrible Judas but I dissagre completely. This dude has some talent, people. Do you not think we he goes off in his voice that he is just a proffesional? I liked him even more than Carl Anderson and think he needs to go and reprise this role several more times. At that very moment in the begining of "Heaven on their minds" when he goes "Jesus!" the story just begins and that's it. His "Superstar" is what made me go out and buy this DVD, 6 soundtracks and see it live twice! Of course, now I have moved on to Les Miz and Miss Saigon but I must say, just see 1 minute of "Superstar" and you will love this, and musical theare. This show and that little performance by Jerome got me to like Broadway. 'Nuff said only that if Jerome Pradon is reading this, I just got to say good job.
5 Pradon is Perfect
I have to say, I have seen the original movie and listened to the soundtracks so many times, I wasn't expecting this new version to be new. But it definately was. weaving the wars into it, with Pilate's German-inspired costume, and French graffiti on the walls, it did this subtly, not pushing it too much. The lighting was brilliant, each character had their own lighting. The subtle costume change in Jesus from modern clothes to a more "Jesusy" garment was perfect, and the musical score was amazing. They could not have picked better actors (and actress) for the parts.
Now, I had noticed Rik Mayall was in this(as Herod, which he played brilliantly, as should be expected), and since my favorite movie is Drop Dead Fred (well one of my favorites) I was excited at seeing him in a new production. But what really got me was Jerome Pradon. He plays the role of Judas brilliantly, bringing out different sides of the character. He shows that Judas was a real person, loved Jesus, had deep problems and also showed him as the attention seeking child, trying to prove to everyone that he's not bad, and really shows that maybe the reason he overreacted at Mary was because he was Jesus' "right-hand man all along", and Mary was taking his place. It showed he was not entirely evil, and was trying to do good for Jesus, but didn't think of consequences. I especially love his cocky grins and "yeah, yeah" hand movements, and his voice. I usually would not like a voice that cracks, but He did it on purpose, and it worked beautifully. I was in love with Pradon instantly.
This entire movie is a masterpiece, with something for all ages. Every element of this film was brought out perfectly, and they didn't just do a remake of the original movie. They did their own version of it, with things a newer generation could I identify with, instead of being just another 70's based production. I will have watched this movie for the 7th time in three weeks now ( I watch it as often as possible) and I plan on buying the soundtrack from it soon. If you have not seen this movie yet, you are missing out on an epic film that did not get the attention it deserves in the USA.
6 All I can say is..........
........The 1973 movie version of Jesus Christ Superstar with Ted Neeley was MUCH better than this bland version. Trust me, it is!!
7 Good Jesus, good Pilate, BAD Judas!
For what it was it was a pretty good remake of the 1973 classic. This movie was ment to show Jesus Christ Superstar would be like on the stage. It wasn't epic but it was still pretty enjoyable, until Jerome Pardon as Judas is on. Then its unlistonable. Don't get me wrong he acted really well. But he can't sing at all. He was god awful. I love JCS. But this updated remake is okay at best. Buy it if you are a diehard Superstar fan.
8 Whoa !!! Glad I have this one!
I've been a fan of JCS since I saw the live stage version as a child in Boston (a very long time ago). I am one of the "die hard" fans that loved the screen version from the 70's, wearing out three VHS tapes of it. This version, however, grabbed me by the throat and demanded my attention. This latest version of JCS is no slouch by any means. This latest version is modernized and updated for the modern times, and is far more gritty and realistic when compared with the 1970's version.
The use of a stage as the main set of the video actually works quite well. Costumes are spectacular, as is the camera and lighting work. The story line is more clearly defined as an examination of the relationship between Jesus (Glenn Carter), Judas (Jerome Pradon), and Mary (Renee Castle), and the dynamics involved. The Romans, particularly Pilate (Fred Johanson), are far more frightening characters, as is Herod (Rik Mayall). The Romans are no longer portrayed as innocent bystanders in this version, and the Trial before Pilate is far more violent (Carter in reality is injured during the production of this scene). While not anywhere near the violent level of "The Passion of the Christ," you may wish to consider whether this one is appropriate for younger viewers.
If you like the 1973 video version of JCS, you'll love this one.
9 Pradon steals the show!
The new re-working of "Jesus Christ Superstar" is not without its flaws. Because the cast is made up almost entirely of stage actors, techniques designed to be visible to a back-row audience seem over-acted when filmed in closeup. Glenn Carter as Jesus is not as charismatic as he could be, and after multiple viewings, I'm still not quite sure what to make of Rik Mayell's performance as King Herod.
However, Michael Shaeffer and Frederick B. Owens make an excellent dark duo. The apostles are energetic and talented. Tony Vincent's "Simon Zealotes" is a standout. Carter has a good voice, which is put to good use in songs like "Gethsemane."
And then, there is Jerome Pradon.
When I first saw "Jesus Christ Superstar," I was skeptical of Pradon's performance as Judas, largely because of his high notes, and the fact that he was not hitting them. I was disappointed and wished a stronger singer, like Tony Vincent, had been given the role instead. It wasn't until someone directed me to the Paris revival recording of "Les Miserables" (Pradon played Marius) that I realized that Pradon CAN hit those notes. It's Judas who can't. This seems very appropriate, as it stacks up as yet another thing Jesus has that Judas does not - the respect of large numbers of people, good looks, a beautiful woman, etc. At the end of the show, during the song "Superstar," we see Judas as he would have liked to be, singing almost pitch-perfect as he mocks Jesus.
Aside from this smart singing choice, Pradon is absolutely fascinating to watch. He plays the part superbly, putting his facial expressions to excellent use, and utilizing his entire body as Judas descends into madness. Though "Jesus Christ Superstar" is truly about the fall of Judas Iscariot, many production try to place the focus on Jesus. However, every time Pradon is onscreen, he rightfully steals the show back to where its focal point should be.
10 Great acting except Jesus
Jerome Pradon's Judas may not be the best choice for singing, but for raw emotion I have not seen his equal. I get completely drawn into his story. Jerome Pradon's voice may shake, but it does so with passion. He is amazing. You may not choose this version for audio, but for vidio, it's amazing. Sadly, the guy playing Jesus doesn't seem to be able to act his way out of a wet paper bag until the very end of the movie, when Christ is dragging the cross and is then cruxified. At that point he seems to realize he's supposed to be acting and actually does a good job. The rest of the time, he wanders around the stage trying to look cute (I get the image of a puppy). I love the movie as a whole, and it's much more timeless than the 1973 version. Ultimately I WOULD recommend this to anyone interested in the story, and not just the music.
11 Great Musical, If a Little Dated
This was a wonderful 70's-ish Rock Musical about a man named Jesus Christ, who is the leader of a revolutionary movement which has started attracting all the wrong kind of attention from the Powers That Be. His boyfriend, Judas Iscariot, is warning him that his followers are warping his philosophies, and is also jealous of his relationship with a beautiful lady of the night, Mary Magdalene. What follows this set up is a beautiful, tragic story of what happens when the movement spins wildly out of Jesus's control and he is forced to pay for it's popularity -- perhaps with his life! The panoply of human emotion in this Rock Opera is astounding, from Judas's pain over his betrayal, to Mary's desire to allow love into her time-hardened heart. I would definitely recommend this movie highly for anyone over 14, as many of the scenes at the end are very disturbing -- I know they would have given me nightmares when I was a child, funky singing or no! A beautiful production.
12 Go for the 70's version...
When I had the opportunity to see the reworked JCS, I was eager to take advantage. I had found the dusty desert with little to no staging from the 70's version a little unnerving. In addition to the background, some of the vocal ranges were, shall we say, unusual - of course, blame Webber and Rice for this, I guess. After time, though, the voices of Jesus and Judas simply won me over. Judas was phenomenal. Anyway, I was anxious to try the new.
I was a little disappointed after seeing the production. I say a "little" because I tried really hard to appreciate the novelty. But after repeated viewings, all I can say is that I personally feel this production is horrible.
The 70's Jesus was so small and frail it was troubling at first. Ultimately his powerful voice and raw emotion won me over. This Jesus never could win me over. He seemed weak and was pushed around - literally (not by the Pharisees or Romans as you'd expect, but by Judas). And speaking of Judas... Poor fellow. Poor, poor Judas. He absolutley cannot reach the notes. I am sure he has a good voice, but most of what is heard here is the poor guy straining for all he's worth. He is emotive, but I think that may be the head rush from clinching every muscle he has to try to hit the notes.
I do believe the pharisees were better in the new production - even if some of their acting was a little disconcerting. The disciples were pretty pathetic in my opinion. Mary was okay.
I had hoped the staging would be a welcome change form the old version, but I just didn't feel it fit the piece. I could never buy in.
Obviously many disagree, but my earnest suggestion is that you stick with the standard edition from the 70's if you want JCS. With the sparse production value, you can focus on the talent of the actors. The new version has nothing to offer - in worthwhile staging or vocal talent.
13 Judas steals the show
While nowhere near the singer that portrayed Christ, Judas by far stole the show with his emotional acting and lines. In fact if they hadn't been at the last supper and sang the Apostle song you can barely pick out Judas's 11 companions from the mob.
Chaias, Pilate, and Herod sing in a difficult manner to follow; despite this Pilate manages one of the better performances of the show when he asks why Christ must die. Herod simply comes off annoying.
Magdalene sings the nice 'I Don't Know How to Love Him' number and Christ's moment of doubt is very moving. There are a few other good moments through the show but overall I found it disappointing.
14 Good
I have listened to all the sound tracks and watched the 1973 movie and this one as well. I did not get to watch the original broadway hit from 1971 since I was not born yet, but I consider that version to have the best soundtrack, as I believe Judas, Jesus, and the Priests had a much stronger and more compelling performance than the other versions. I think that the new JCS is great, and would advise anyone who owns the movie version from 1973 to see this one as well as it gives a much more modern look which adds a whole new dimension to the classic. I wish, however, that there was an existing copy of the original broadway play from 1971, as the music of that version just excels the newer versions.
15 Jesus Christ Superstar-Broadway
I loved this version! Andrew Lloyd Webber made it with his revival of the London cast. Every song was fantasic! I bought both movie versions - this one and the Norman Jewison version (1973) - and this one is definitly the best!I hope you will buy and enjoy it to.
16 Better than original
As far as musicals go, I am as enthusiastic and open to new versions as they come. But when I saw that this version on Jesus Christ Superstar (JCS) was set on a stage, i was very weary about it. Also, being a traditionalist (even thought im only 16), I was drawn away by the "modernism" of the Webber classic. But, I as soon as "Heaven on their minds broke into its tell-tale rythmic explosion, i knew it was an istant masterpiece. Comparitively to the original, this version of JCS, has superior acting and singing engrosed within all of its players. Plus, the addition of brittish comedian "Drop Dead Fred" as King Herod made "King of the Jews" one of the many memorable numbers. Also, Glenn Carter plays one of the most empowering, yet heart wrenching roles in musical history as he plays the lead as Jesus. And No other actor could have played it better. All in all, JCS is simply stunning, Breathtakeing, and a marvel of modern musicals that should be mirrored in others. five out of five stars.
-if you want to reach me, feel free to email me at mr_014@hotmail.com-
17 This Musical should not have be Revisited
Jesus Christ Superstar is somewhat of a period piece. The style of the music reflects the time period in which it was written. To try to revive it in the 21st Century, it just does not work. 1973 was the perfect time to make JCS into a movie. The style of rock mixed with opera was a fad during the 1970's. Although the music stands the test of time and is still AMAZING, this movie trys to throw a contemporary twist on Superstar and it ends up blowing up in everyone's face. Herod is portrayed as a Frank Sinatra look-alike in a tuxedo, while the Jewish mob is portrayed as a LA street gang. Through this Broadway version, the original setting of "Isreal in 4 BC" is lost. There is no sign of Jesus' real homeland. Glenn Carter is a mediocre Jesus and does not show the turmoil and emotion of the character as Ted Neeley did in the 1973 movie version. Plus Ted Neeley could sing circles around Glenn Carter. Wow Ted Neeley was phenominal. Skip this version and buy the old version instead. Some musicals should be not be revived and Jesus Christ Superstar is one of them.
18 Superdisappointment
That's all. Disappointing from the beggining. New arrangements, ciber-punk fashioned people, and a cast that really works... until Jesus starts to act. My god! I've never seen such a bad performance. He's cold and over-acts. When he tries to inspire pity or fear all he can get from you is a laugh. Getsemani becomes tasteless in the mouth of Carter. Judas and Mary Magdalene are two of the few caracters that are convincent in this new DVD. I've played drums in an amateur representation of J.C. Superstar and our christ was better than Carter.
If you've never seen the play in a theatre, this is not the best way to do it. If you're a fan as devoted as I am buy it. You don't have to see Carter's scenes if you don't want to
19 IF YOU ARE A FAN OF THE 1973 MOVIE
The reason I got this new DVD of JCS, is that i've never seen the play performed live, and this would get me closer to it than the 1973 movie version. Well, sort of. First of all, it's not neccesarily a faithfull live performance. The work of cameras, the edition, the need of presenting it "like a movie", take a little of that notion. And second, this is just another adaptation of the live play. Not the first, nor the last.
Is it ejoyable for those who only know the '73 movie?. Well, I kinda liked it. My guess is that if you love the play, you'll like this DVD, because it's all about the songs and the play. But certainly, I cannot say that, as a whole, this DVD is better than the old movie.
The "modernized" enviroment is intended, I guess, to give the play an "updated" feeling. JCS for the new generations. But the street looks of the stage, the grafittis, the Nazi/Darth Vader-like costumes of the authorities and guards, and other elements, compromise compatibility. I mean, the message of Jesus Christ is universal, but the time and place in which events took place were unique. More than updated, the historical facts look out of place.
OK, maybe it's just a false impression. Some would argue that the '73 movie version had the same flaws, with, among other things, roman guards in jeans and construction helmets. But since the movie was filmed in locations close to the originals in place and looks, details like modern costumes were easier to overlook.
Regarding the voices, most of the singers are wonderful. I was specially impressed by Tony Vincent (Simon), Fred Johanson (Pilate) (by the way, he sounds so much like the judge in The Trial, in Pink Floyd's The Wall), and Renee Castle (Mary Magdalene). But the leads...Jerome Pradon (Judas) has a good voice, but the problem is the way he sings. Too many breaks in his singing becomes anoying. And the scene of Judas' final moments is awful. He choses to be somewhere between singing and screaming, with poor results. It's a shame, because in some parts he shows that he has a great range and powerful voice, but he just choses not to use all of this potential most of the times. And he shares another problem with Glen Carter (Jesus). They rather did the high notes of the songs with an elevated soft voice, not a powerful one. That produces changes in the key of the songs that are not pleasant. And they share another problem: sometimes, they look unconfortable in front of the camera. Check for instance the Gethsemani scene. Finally I was completely disappointed with Rik Mayall's voice (Herod).
Ok, I know I'm making an unfair judgement. After all, the singing in the '73 movie version was pre-recorded, and all the actors did was to lip-synch, and sure, they chose the better takes, so the margin of error was absent. But then again, I'm talking about things that will be noticeble by those who are "used" to that old version.
But of course, not all is bad. The handling of lights and cameras is excellent. And a couple of scenes are very powerful and impressive, not only in performance, but also in a cinematic sense: the trial before Pilate, and the crucifixtion (the problem is that they are interrupted by the "Superstar" song performance, in which Judas and dancing exotic girls are singing around Jesus carrying the cross, a scene that is somewhat shocking and was "softened" in the '73 version).
In conclusion, if you are a fan of the old movie, and want to see or get this DVD, think of it as an alternate version, but not necessarily "better".
20 Finally a JCS that is not hoaky!!!
The first time I saw this musical was a few years ago at an outdoor theater on Montery, CA. It was a traditional interpretation of the show, and I absolutely loved it!!! I was so touched by story. I rented the 70s movie and was utterly disappointed in how hoaky it was. It was hard to get into it when they were setting it up at the beginning. It was just a bunch of hippies singing in the dessert I admit they had great voices, but boy did Judas overact.
This version was amazing!!! Almost all of the actors (Pilot kind of sucked)portrayed the characters perfectly. The Judas in this was my favorite. I don't know why so many people don't like his voice. It is a ROCK OPERA!!! He fit the bill to perfection.
Yes he could have sung the song all pretty like, but it would not have conveyed the emotion necessary for the role. If you pay attention, you can tell he has the ability to sing it like that, but he totally made the right decision to rock out!!!!
There was also incredible chemistry between Jesus and Judas (not the sexual kind) which is required for any JCS. I really felt the love, pain, and conflict. I highly reccommend this version!!!!
21 Mediocre, but still worth checking out.
I have been looking high and low for this DVD and I was exhilarated when I found it. I had to have it specially ordered because the store I went to did not have it in stock. And yes, it was worth it.
To those of you unfamiliar with the plot of Jesus Christ Superstar (JCS), well... that sounds quite implausible, but still... if you have no idea what the story of Jesus Christ is, all you have to do is read the Bible, or head out to watch Passion of the Christ. JCS chronicles the last few days, or perhaps hours of Jesus of Nazareth's life, through the point of view of the betrayer, Judas Iscariot.
Yes, this is what makes the storyline somewhat distinct from other movies/plays based on the story of Jesus. Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical sees Jesus through the eyes of Judas, and explores Judas's character, while at the same time, helping the audience to speculate why Judas would betray someone he loved so much.
The cast here is outstanding. Glenn Carter is superb as Jesus, partly because he bears some resemblance to his character. Renee Castle is a great singer, though her voice is a little feeble and is reminiscent of Brandy. Jerome Pradon gets the thumbs-up for his performance as Judas. His interpretation of Judas's character shows us a man who is torn between his love for Jesus and his wisdom. Although Jerome is hardly a great singer, he is an outstanding actor. And his great performance is what makes the film so enjoyable. Rik Mayall is wonderful as King Herod. He has the right mischievous air, coupled with the malice he exudes.
Indeed, it is the cast that holds this performance together. The musical itself, to me, is hardly as strong as what Andrew Lloyd Webber could have offered. The music has not enough lilts to engross viewers. I would not classify this musical as one of the greatest in the world for this reason. Such a great story deserves a stronger musical score to bring forth its greatness.
22 preferred the 70s
I'm sorry I may be the minority who preferred the 70s version, maybe I'm getting old and sentimental. To me, the singing seems jarring and over acting, especially "see my tongue I can hardly talk", and the Gothic makeup weren't to my liking. And a blue-eyed Jesus ? I know this is acting, but at least infuse some reality for believers of the Christian faith. Thanks.
23 Amazing Talent....
This version is the best I have seen. It was inspiring and just plain amazing. Glenn Carter as Jesus was powerful beyond words and was supported by a very talented cast. Jerome Pradon was wonderful as Judas. Renee Castle is beautiful and a wonderful surprise by Tony Vincent as Simon Zealot. Surprise meaning that this young man has an extrordinary voice and I would have loved to have heard more of it.
24 This is not a review...but a speech about this great movie..
...and also about the actor who played Judas. Hey everyone! It's me again, the girl who the review entitled "Perfect" don't worry I will always believe that. I, was eight years old when I saw the 1973 version of the movie, I had no choice cause the musical "Tommy" was coming on shortly after. Although due to misfortunes, I only got to hear two songs "Herod's Song" and "Peter's Denial". Let's move forward, about 5 or 6 years. I was becoming an ALW buff, after seeing both "CATS and "Joseph" well I already told you how skeptic I was about this one and where I got it, so let's skip to the day I watched it. Shall we? My mind was racing, my heart was thumping the moment I saw graffti on the walls, I automatically knew I could get use to this. So I did, now I am 14 and a big JCS fan I love watching it as does my twin who is also a big ALW fan. On Easter, I felt miserable pratically dragging my feet around my house. I asked mom, if in church I could write down notes about Pas. Chris's sermon and JCS, and she said it was okay. That's what changed my mind about going to the chapel that very morning. One movie, one little movie!! Funny Moment: In church, we were singing a hymn and all the sudden when they started talking about the crucifixion Krystle (my twin) looked at me, and we both started laughing or giggling (I think it was laughter). I'm sorry, I got a little bit off track. Now, Jerome Pradon who is said to be about in his early 30's during this filming process, well I have a little crush on him. He seems to have some kind of charm, my sister Krystle who was at her "time" (ladies, we all know what I mean by that) was cramping and was grumpy all day long. So, I thought the movie would cheer her up, so after I watched "American Idol" I putted the tape in. She kept saying that she wanted to stop it before "The Temple (She's scared of it). Well, during "Heaven On Their Minds" the second Judas smiled Krystle began grinning ear to ear. Then, I told her when we had to stop it again, she then changed her mind and said after the song "I Don't Know How To Love Him" just cause she wanted to see the semi blooper. SHARP EYE WARNING: Look when Mary leans over Jesus's body, he then opens his eyes and raises his eyebrows, her dress is too big! Meaning, he can her (coughing) developers. Me and Krystle argued, then when the song ended she saw Judas smiling and blew a kiss to him, I knew she wanted to watch it just a little bit longer so after the song "Blood Money" (Sorry, I can't curse when I'm typing), we stopped the tape. When people ask me why I like Judas, I say this much: I like him, cause he is drop-dead gorgeous, terrific singer, and is not afraid to show his emotions. Now, I have to talk about one scene that I liked. Shortly after the song "Superstar" Judas letted out a scream of pain, then we realized Jesus at the paticular moment was screaming. Awww, they felt each other's presence. In a word to sum up the casting of Judas and the movie itself: Perfect! Toodles.
25 Best version both musically and visually
Short and simple. The first video was great but there is NO comparison! ALL the actors have and unbelievable about of passion and power. The 1st version was flat and unfeeling. I have rarely experienced such powerful acting, and the signing is just as awesome. Love Pilate and Judas and Magdalene and Harod and and and! All
26 Who is Jesus Christ?
I just finished watching this DVD rental, and find myself online to buy a copy. It is worth adding to your collection for viewing and reviewing. Not being Christian...my only annual "observance" of Easter is to pull out my original London cast recording of this masterpiece (on an album!) and listen to the Passion Play. I thank Webber/Rice who gave me a version of this ages-old story which became accessible and profoundly moving.
This production was at first off-putting with the updated costumes and set (mucking up a classic!) but quickly I got past that, and into the statement this theme was offering. Although this film has a theatrical feel, the characters of Jesus, Judas, and Mary Magdalene are skillfully portrayed by the actors. True emotional angst comes through which is heart-rending. The musical pieces are true to the classic, yet fresh and new. I was pleasantly surprised to hear Mary singing "Can We Start Again Please", which I had heard before, but did not associate with this play, as it is not in the London album.
I am once again moved and humbled by the frailty, the fear and loneliness, yet the utter faith and understanding of the man, Jesus of Nazareth.
27 Powerfully insightful production!
I found this version of the classic story very powerful. It contains insights which passed me by in the earlier versions. The theatrical motif is one example. (i.e. the Herod show )
The dynamics of a crowd of followers seem more apparant
than ever in this movie. How did Jesus get caught up in a drama like this? How was he "made" into the martyred messianic template of human spiritual insecurity?
Why do we continue this silly drama even today?
People want someone to point to and say "he did it" so they don't need to do it themselves. It's the classic skipping out on responsibility. Truth matters. The movie is full of it at so many different levels. It is powerfully insightful into the
human condition.
The fact that it does not represent history so much as it represents the ongoing human spiritual quest for certainty and control serves a higher purpose in my opinion. We should learn from history rather than worship it.
The historical details of Jesus will always be a murky affair but
the spiritual saga is still alive within us all.
This movie does a great justice to that saga while using the story of Jesus as the canvas upon which the saga is painted.
Why do we need a leader anyway? We know what virtues are.
We know how to live rightly. We know what it means to treat others as we wish to be treated. We know the truth. Why the persistant drama? This movie at least cracks the door on
this question and lets the audience take a peek inside at
our spiritual nature.
28 Perfect!
I saw this movie in the movie store Suncoast, well I was kind of skeptic cause I hate blood and gore. Mean being 14, I thought this was the perfect way to expose me to the story of Jesus, what it would of been like in modern times. The first half, with the songs such as "Everything's Alright and "Simon Zealotes I absolutey adored. Okay, maybe I adored Simon! My favortie songs/scenes were kind of hard to choose but I chose "Jesus Must Die and "The Last Supper". We all hate to admit it, but Judas is kind of pitchy but he make's it work. Especially, during the number "Heaven On Their Minds". No it's not true, Jesus never had sexual feelings towards Mary M., but this is what make's it insterting the fact that he to was a human and not just the son of God. I hear the term, OVEREACTING alot in the reviews, okay I will admit some of the Apostle's were kind of dramatic during the Last Supper, but it was an intense moment they had a very very hard time accepting the fact that Jesus would die, and Judas betrayed him. Little kids, shouldn't watch this but teens let's say 13-100 should most defintely watch it. I, who am 14 love it cause I have the NR version of it. Oh, I like this a little bit better then the 1970's version. Which has, more violence then this one has by a mile in my opinon. Down below, are five reasons you should watch this. Read them carefully:
1. Acting: Glenn Carter, is a great portrayl of Jesus Of Nazereth and Jerome Pardon plays Judas almost as well Tony Vincent played him on Broadway. Renee Castle is the best pick for the role of Mary M, she actually show's her emotions. Fianlly, Tony Vincent the goregoeus boy-toy who play's Simon, cute and a great actor. Need I say more?
2. MUSIC: Perfect songs, perfect vocals, perfect orchesta, perfect Ensemble, perfect EVERTHING!
3. Jesus Must Die: Hehe, okay don't take it the wrong way it's not the fact that I wanted Jesus to die. It's the fact, that I looove the song "Jesus Must Die" okay mostly rule number because the Leiber and Stroller singer Fred Owens play's Catiphas in it!
4. Weapons: BB Guns, in a bible story! Whoo-hoo!
5. Neat Soundtrack: Again about the music: The soundtrack rocks!!! A good thing to listen to in the car, if you don't have the movie.
There I'm done, it's a true fact that this is better then 1970's one, cause of those five reasons! Never forget them! And you'll agree with me. Ciao!
29 SUPERSTAR IS SUPERBLY DONE
This was GREAT! It's been years since I watched the original (Ahhhhh, the memories........) and I must say that this re-make was superbly done. Glenn Carter's voice as JC had great powerful vocals! Renee Castle did a fantastic job as Mary Magdaline and her voice was AWESOME! (as was Judas') I especially liked the fact that they updated the staging to fit into today's times! The leather and vinyl clothing were a GREAT touch to this production! All the costumes were FANTASTIC! The story concept, music and lyrics are the same as they were in the original but brought more up-to-date. I recommend this version to ANYONE that HAS SEEN the original, would LIKE to see the movie, or SHOULD see this movie. Even my pre-teen and teenagers enjoyed this version! FIVE STARS ALL AROUND!!
30 On Steroids
It is absolutely true that the preformances are over-the-top, but it completely works because of this musical's use of contrasting "light and dark". It just serves to deepen the contrast. This show is flawlessly casted...I have tried but I can't think of anything I don't like about it. I give it six stars. The rock n roll arrangements are full of very subtle embellishments, and I hear something different everytime I watch.
31 Interesting new take, but vocal talent from 1973 is better.
I can't help but compare this to the 1973 version, as well as the tour I saw in the mid 90's.
As far as the acting & direction goes, I really think this version at least matches(if not surpasses) the others that I've seen. In particular is the dynamic between Judas & Jesus. I also appreciated the whole design, even if a few of the costumes were a bit over the top for me. (Pilate = M. Bison?)
I felt that his version made Judas seem a bit more mean spirited, & seemed to suggest a different outcome for him as well. In the 1973 version & the tour I saw Judas performed "Superstar" in flashy, white outfits while this version has him in a devilishly red one.
This Jesus also seems to be in less control of things around him, though that's just this version's interpretation.
As far as the vocal talent goes, the following stood out as good or bad:
* Judas did not have the same range that Carl Anderson had in the 1973 film & in the 90's tour when I saw him. Not bad, but certainly not the best renditions I've heard.
* Jesus also lacked the range of Ted Neeley in both the 1973 & 90's tour. While I've heard people complain about Neeley's high notes, I'd say this this Jesus often felt quite flat to me.
* Mary was great, though I've not heard a bad rendition of her parts.
* Caiphas(sp?) had some great, low tones but I was unimpressed with him attempts at anything else.
* Pilate was much different from any other performance I've heard, but I liked it quite a bit.
Finally, my favorite part of this DVD was actually the "making of" feature because it actually has Weber & Rice talking about JCS!
32 A Brand New Twist
Although i have seen the classic version of 'Jesus Christ Superstar' but this one captures my interest. I can't take away of comparing the classic and the modern version of this hit broadway turned movie spectacle. Unlike the classic one, this is more of a fast pace, some scenes are full of intensity, colors are vibrant and the singing comes into full swing. Of course, singing was well orchestrated and the sound is as hip as the sound of today's genre. The version from the classic movie was given new life and new twist to the rhythm and essence of the songs rendered but I have to say that the original one will always be the best because the gems are still there and you really are used to listening to it.
In fairness to this modern version, a breakthrough film making was done giving a 'live' portraits of a broadway, in terms of cinematography and acting performances of the stars. Although the actors of this version are full of intensity and emotion, there are some instances that they overdo their emotions which is not appropiate anymore to their lines that they were saying or singing...just observed the scene where Judas and Mary Magdalene confrontation and the intervention of Jesus and also the Last Supper...you will be the critic of this.
Over all, the film has done some adjustments and giving new twist to the classic broadway hit but at the end the viewers will decide which version favored to their taste after all, 'Jesus Christ Superstar' is a movie where anybody and everybody can relate to it...just be an open-minded person, that's the imprtant attitude to watch this film.
33 Wow!
I had heard of Jesus Christ Superstar before from, of all people, an eight-year-old who was an avid fan, but the very title was enough to throw me off. Then, my sister's high school made the very gutsy decision to use it as their spring all-school musical. Her enthusiasm for it caught my interest. I listened to the London Concept soundtrack and loved it, then watched both this movie and the 1973 version. There is absolutely no comparison.
As Jesus, Ted Neely (sp?) always seemed to be sleepy or something, except for his breaking up the marketplace in the temple. But Glenn Carter - wow. Not only can he express the torment of a man who knows that he was only born to die ("To conquer death, you only have to die"...who can forget that??), that his very best friends will deny and betray him, and that he might never get recognition for what he is about to do; he can also display such radiant joy that it is impossible not to smile with him. In the "Hosanna" scene, that gorgeous smile of his just shines with heavenly light - until the Israelites suggest that he die for them. His voice is lovely, but the true shining light in this production is Jerome Pradon's Judas Iscariot.
Usually portrayed as a villain, Pradon's Judas is disillusioned, irritated with Jesus for not doing something about his followers' misguided ideas, and torn between civic duty and love for his best friend. Some have described his voice as not up to snuff, but Judas is arguably one of the most complex characters in the history of theater. Consumed by confusion, anger, helplessness, and guilt, whose voice could NOT crack? The Last Supper and the Betrayal always leave me in tears: Judas' last desperate attempt to understand Jesus, his agonized betrayal of him and Jesus' subsequent forgiveness, followed by his realization that he has been tricked into murdering his best friend by a silent God, and his final grasp at control over his own life by hanging himself.
More pluses: Renee Castle's Mary Magdalene is heart-wrenching as she comes to grips with the fact that she loves a man who will never love her back - moreover, that she doesn't want him to. Simon Zealotes, as a gun-toting militant, represents the many people who thought that Jesus had come to Earth to fight a war against the Romans. Pilate is magnificent, if a little over-acted - a man who does not know what to make of Jesus, who seems so small and helpless, but possesses an inner strength and power that frightens Pilate, who was, everyone must remember, an unwilling accomplice in Jesus' death. Rik Mayall's Herod is hilarious, but something in his facial expression sends chills up one's spine - he may be loopy, but he's nobody to mess with. Finally, although I know Annas is not a comedic character, his voice kills me every time. The perfect weasel-y villain next to Caiaphas' almost too deep bass!
Some common complaints by Christians: First, that Jesus is portrayed as too human. I beg everyone to remember that Jesus was human, and that the night of his arrest he prayed so earnestly for God to save his life that he began to sweat blood. Second, that everything is not portrayed as it is in the Bible. If this worries you, please remember that the Gospel was written by other disciples, and even by people who never knew Jesus personally. The point of the play is to see events through Judas' eyes. As we can never know Judas' feelings and thoughts, this is only someone's attempt to understand how the events of the Gospel may have appeared to him. Third, that the Resurrection portrayed in the Bible is not part of the film. Again, remember that this is Judas' story. Judas did not know that Jesus would rise again. All he knew was that Jesus would die, and that is what the movie portrays.
Now for my few complaints. The actor who plays Caiaphas tries so hard to sing contrabass that often he misses notes and rhythms. Jesus' destruction of the marketplace was not as good as it could have been, what with all the TVs everywhere: the one element in which I prefer the 1973 version. Judas' suicide is rather too long drawn out, and almost loses its importance. But these are minor problems. All in all, I would give this movie six stars, but five is as high as they'll let me go!
34 Great movie if you don't like the real Jesus!
Besides very questionable acting, my main take on this movie is that if you're really interested in Jesus, read the New Testament and get the real thing. The Jesus in this movie (also not to mention his disciples and many related story points) don't line up with both the historical Jesus and also the living Jesus of today.
Also, there was a large level of ethnocentrism in the movie, hinting that to be American is Christian, and vice versa. I thought that was interesting as only 17% of Christians worldwide live in the United States, and that a large portion of Americans wouldn't call themselves Christian unless we're at a time of war and would want God on their side.
There may be something to say about the level of fun in this movie, and that something is: The movie would probably be great entertainment for kids, other than the fact that you'd be letting your kids be taught lies about the real story and the Jesus. If you have no problem with that, then sit them right down on the couch and pop it in. Otherwise, I would get them the Jesus movie for kids, read them the New Testament, or get the Bible on CD. Zondervan puts out a good one.
Overall, I wish I could have rated this movie lower.
This movie is a good gift for:
Extreme Liberal Pluralists
Cult Leaders
Ethnocentric Militia Colonels
Passive Parents
Kids you want to lie to
35 stark and dark
Filmed at Pinewood Studios, this production has sparse sets with scaffolding that serves for nearly every scene, and has the feel of a stage performance; it has been updated to an indeterminate era, but definitely a time one wouldn't want to live in. There are Nazi-like authority figures, punky gun-toting youth, and the walls are covered in graffiti. The colors are provided by the lighting, and are usually in either a monocromatic dark blue or yellow-orange.
Inevitably, many people will compare this to the 1973 Norman Jewison film, which is a pity, as they are so vastly different. This is much more somber, and the final scenes are wrenching.
Glenn Carter is astounding as Jesus, vocally exceptional in what must be a difficult part to sing, and looking like an Albrecht Durer painting. His Gethsemane ("I Only Want to Say") is superb, and worth the price of this film alone.
Jerome Pradon is also excellent as Judas, and Fred Johanson's Pilate is marvelous, though the entire cast is good, both as actors and singers.
It is interesting in this film how skillfully the evil in a character is portrayed in the song and dance numbers, by Herod (who is so well played by Rik Mayall), and Judas.
One feels the exhaustion and horror of Jesus' last days palpably in this film. The drama of the scourging is a magnificent piece of staging, and powerful; it is a visual punch to the gut, and the crucifixion scene is brilliantly done and moves me to tears every time I see it.
Not an easy film to watch, but well worth the purchase, as it gets better with each viewing.
36 Not Bad
Let me start off by saying that Jerome Pradon was a wonderful Judas!!!!--way more powerful then Murray Head in the original production. At times Renee Castle (Mary) was a bit flat, and I did't like the fact that they mondernized it. I'm 28 years old and when I was growing up this was the only thing I listend to and I listended to it over and over again, drove my mother nuts sometimes. Oh and one more thing,they butchered King Herod's Song :( That was the only problem I had with it.
37 Horrible
This DVD is terrible and not worth watching. The characters lack passion and are unbelievable. I had to force myself to sit through it until I could not take it anymore. Don't waste your time with this one, watch the original again.
38 Good...not great
I don't really care for the older version of this musical or the new one. Both seem to have too much of whatever the time they were filmed look to them. In the newer version though I thought the person who played Mary was brilliant. She has a stunning voice and is so good. The diciples are all awesome and some of the numbers in this moving are amazing. Simon's Zelatos, Everything's Alright, I don't Know How to Love Him, and Hosanna are all so unbelievable. My personal favorite is Could We Start Again Please. That song is so pretty and I would recommend this version of it because it's better than the older one, though it could have been a little better.
39 Absolutely Wonderful
Don't let the poor reviews of these theatre illetirate imbeciles affect your decision to rent this movie. To a trained theatre eye the technique and innovation of this show is emaculate. Judas executes his talent magnificently. His training at Cours Florent proves to be worthwile. Jesus show his ability in a more subtle way, playing the character to a tee.The set and costume design is one of a creative and contemporary edge. But I will say that you have to be able to have the ability to think logically and have an appreciation for theatre to thouroughly enjoy this movie.
I say buy it!!
40 Hm-m-m, where is Jesus?
For starters, this movie is not about Jesus. Well, not about that Jesus. The action takes place in a concrete desert of a former industrial town. My first guess was New York, but later they started to call it Jerusalem. The biggest attraction is a replica of Berlin Wall, at least it's painted the same way. A gang holds the place. By some coincidence, the gang leader is called Jesus Christ and his lieutenants have names of apostles. Police raid makes us think that this should be a future as policemen are dressed like Darth Vader. One of the apostles has a tattoo of a cross on his forearm. Juda commits a suicide in the middle of the movie, and then continues to sing and comment for the rest of time. And, yes, animal right activists beware, there is a lot of black leaver, even female angels wear black leaver bikinis.
Clearly this gang is also a semi-religious sect, and the fathers of the town are worried about that. Head of the priests (Afro-American, like about a half of the gang) decides to arrest and execute the leader of the gang, while watching them on a surveillance cameras. However their first attempt (during sermon, I assume) fails because the crowd is waiving "schmeisers" (WWII German machine guns) and few AK-47s. When the leader of the gang gets traders from the Temple, the merchandize left includes working TVs, showing military airplanes and warships at their bloody work. I am not completely sure of the meaning of this scene. They probably meant that the world is bad and deadly. On another hand planes and ships were American, hence Christian, so it could be the other way around. Pilat is dressed like a Nazi general, probably, SS, and his refusal to crucify an innocent man makes him almost sympathetic.
Well, I wash my hands. Now it's up to you to decide, if you really want to see this movie. Sapienti Sat. Dixi.
41 I don't think the real Jesus looked like Robert Plant...
I have to start by saying I'm a huge fan of the 1973 Norman Jewison VHS version of this Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice masterpiece. Ted Neeley has owned the role of Christ for a long time, and there will never be another like him. And Carl Anderson's portrayal of Judas was nothing short of amazing.
I was disappointed by this newer production of JCS. I know that one of the show's calling cards is that it's a more modern adaptation of the story of Christ, but it's way overdone in this picture; everyone looks like they just came out of an ultra-trendy coffee house or something. Have you seen the movie Hackers? Yeah, they kinda all look like that. JŽr™me Pradon opens with the classic "Heaven on Their Minds," but he makes for a whiney-sounding Judas, and he makes it seem as if Judas really hates Jesus right from the onset; I think Anderson's confused and well-intentioned Judas was much more endearing. Glenn Carter...where can I start? He's not so much of a singer or actor as he is a pretty face...golden locks and big eyes. He doesn't bring an ounce of the intensity to the role of Jesus that we see from Ted Neeley.
I would like to say that Frederick B. Owens is a powerful Caiaphas with his booming bass voice and slick look, and Michael Shaeffer is a good, if somewhat creepy-looking, Annas. Together, they along with the priests seem like a maniacal band of trenchcoat-wearing villains, which is cool in a way. I'd say that's the one aspect of this version of the musical I'm happiest about.
Fred Johanson is awful as Pilate...when he sings "Pilate's Dream," he sounds so miscast, an operatic, overly-dramatic tenor nearly coming to tears in a song that I think is written more as a contemplative piece.
The biggest travesty in this piece is the omission of "Then We Are Decided." This is an ominous duet between Caiaphas and Annas, when they decide that Jesus has become too big a problem to ignore. It was always one of my favorite songs from the musical, and it's completely skipped in this new production.
Go with the 1973 Jewison film, rent this one before you buy.
42 OUTSTANDING!!!!!
I am so THRILLED to have stumbled across this DVD!! I love the original movie, it is timeless and so laden with meaning for me, nothing could eclipse it, but this production is absolutely on par with the original. The industrial perspective is, I do believe, accessible to today's modern youth. The obvious beauty of Glenn Carter also lends itself towards drawing in otherwise apathetic viewers. I don't even have the words to describe how well I believe Judas's performance is, it is beyond words. His interpretation is a treasure. The roles Annas and Caiaphas are chilling and effective, they play them perfectly. I would highly recommend this DVD and CD to anyone who wants a potentially life altering experience to occur.
43 Only for first-comers
Watching this dvd for the first time I was shocked. This thing is out there for decades, and I'd expect the new versions get better, learning from the predecessors. Instead they get worse every time. There was a fine version with Ian Gillan in the beginning. Then the film version I found with voices less fitting on the LP. But much of that was compensated on the screen at least.
Here we have voices MUCH WORSE than those early versions. And the play is mediocre too, at least at some very important parts.
The staging itself I like. The operator's work is excellent. And picture quality could get THX certification hands down. And the look of the characters is used well too. The main roles still drag the whole feeling down. Judas is pretty lame in the first part of the show. Later on he gets better. I like how he use his face, and it was cut in repetedly observing what happens to Jesus.
Jesus is plain bad overall. Singing performace bad to mediocre, acting perfoirmance just mediocre. Like one having absolutely no clue what to do with the role. The central and most important song of JCSS, Getsemane clearly shows that. The central section is okey, but start and especially the ending shows the wrong spirit. Taht is unacceptable, after having the 1973 film showing how to do that well.
The other roles are so-so too, Caifas' singing i sometimes odd in the first part, improving later. Annas pretty much rocks. Pilate is pale singing the dream, but is near good later, but can't do it to the end, the 'you innocent puppet' is played just bad.
Mary's singing seems impossible to spoil, playing is generally okey, could be better too.
My suggestion: watch it before buying. If you don't have the 1973 film, buy that one.
Also, don't judge other really useful's stuff by this. Joseph is excellent dn must-buy. Cats is pretty good too. That adds to my disappointment with this piece.
44 Neither good nor Bad
There is some much overacting in this film that Gale Edwards should be hanged. The worst case is Pilate. Whatever happed to Roman Stoicism. Why does every male character have to cry. The proper playing of Pilate is to have act as if its is just another bad day at work. The Pharisees and Romans all look like science fiction villains from Star Wars. The Roman soldiers all look like Dark Vader. Worst it does not show any distinction between the Romans and the Jews. This is a movie of Black and White or Good versus Evil with no middle ground. I can understand it not being either historically or biblically accurate but it should be at least have the same sprit of the Gospel according to Tim Rice. I had seen the original Broadway production in 1969 which was a straight forward product. This movie and the 1973 Norman Jewison production are both flawed for different reasons. However, there were some good points to this movie especially Simon the Zealot and Mary Magdalene scenes. Musically it was better than the 1973 film and I believe that Glenn Carter voice for Jesus was fine.
45 Bloody Brilliant
The 2000 film version of Jesus Christ Superstar not only superceeds the orginal '73 version, but is a thoughtful, powerful and classy presentation of the brilliant musical penned by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.
I first saw this movie several months ago, I was stunned. Based on the Broadway revival, this is essentially a stage play on film and perhaps that is why it keeps some of the "theatre magic". It should seem easy with the fantastic work of ALW and TM behind them but Gale Edwards and her team ought to be commended (actually, I think they were *cough*EMMY*cough*) for the presentation of this show; the lighting, the direction, the costumes, the setting all add, not only a modern and easily accesible feel, but a believable dramatic aspect that makes the story all the more heartbreaking. It is an undeniabley dark and tragic presentation, but this does not take away from it so much as add more power to the story. As Mr Webber says in the extras, this version is the one he always wanted.
It is the actors however, that bring the most to JCS 2000. In particular Jesus and Judas (Played by Glenn Carter and Jerome Pradon respectively) bring an amazing dymnamic to the screen. Carter (after you get past the fact that he looks scarily like a cute crossbreed of Michael Bolton and Fabio) is an impressive Jesus, he adds a vulnerabilty to his character that makes him both intriguing and humanising. Jerome Pradon is even better, his vocals struggle at times, but his portrayal of Judas outweighs this. He is perhaps one of the most pathetic and simeltaneously heartbreaking Judas' ever played. He plays the inner conflict beautfully, and when Jesus and Judas come up against each other their scenes are rivetting and intensily emotional. The Last Supper and the Kiss Of Betrayal in particular is...just amazing...
The supporting cast is brilliant also, Tony Vincent plays an great warmongering Simon Zealotes, and Pilate is given a newer, sadder aspect by the intense looking Fred Johanson. Perhaps the one exception is Renee Castle as Mary Magdelene, who while looks beautiful and sings even more beautifully, brings a touch too much drama to her part to take in.
If you do not like musicals, or you do not think you can tolerate a story that explores the ideas behind the story of Jesus Christ then you wont like this film, if you do however, you are in for a real treat.
Two very enthusiastic thumbs up. ;P
46 The Definitive Superstar
I have been a "Superstar" fan for over 30 years, and have seen many versions. This one should be the definitive production for posterity. It is near perfect. Musically, technically, dramatically, and theatrically, it is simply superb. As a former singer myself, I was especially impressed by the voices and particularly the diction. Technically, the sound picks up the perfect diction of the singers so that no words are missed at all. Glenn Carter as Jesus has a beautiful voice and brings out Jesus's humanity. Jerome Pradon as Judas, while maybe not perfect visually, is musically right on and exhibits Judas's agony. His voice is the best Judas I've heard. Renee Castle, although no Yvonne Elliman, brings her own persona as Mary Magdalene. Fred Johanson as Pilate is powerful and dramatic, with a gorgeous voice especially in "Pilate and Christ." Two minor imperfections in my view: in "Pilate's Dream," Johanson overacts a bit; and I would have preferred more singing and less speaking in rhythm for Rik Mayall's Herod. With those two minor exceptions, this is a magnificent production in all respects and should replace almost everyone's library of CDs and videos trying to achieve the ultimate "Superstar."
47 Jesus Christ Superstar- This one DID NOT put me to sleep!
Hey- Any one else agree with me that this british version is WAY better than the 1973 version with Ted Neeley? Well, I almost fell asleep watching that version- but this version had great setting, and in my opinion- a better Judus Iscariot- AND a better Pilot + Herod. I also thought that Glenn Carter did a wonderful job as Jesus of Nazareth, and that this version had so much more pizzaz, lights, and better singers- and I only saw the last half of this movie! I would rate this a 10/10! I highly recommend this movie to anyone- although young children might not understand- and might have a problem with the violence.
***** Five stars and Two thumbs up!
Hillary
48 Great singing and acting with staging problems
First of all, I LOVE LOVE LOVE Jesus Christ, SUperstar. It is my FAVE MUSICAL EVERRRRRRR! When I heard they're making another version of it for video i had to buy this. First of all the acting and singing was great. I particulary like Judas because he does sound like he's going insane with fear. The only real problem is high-feminine voices of Jesus and modern-day New York don't mix. But buy it anyway.
49 Too Human
I just watched this version for the first time, back to back with the 1973 movie version. I found the singing very solid. Glenn Carter, Jerome Pradon, and the others were all good, Renee Castle especially. The Simon Zealotes character was exciting, I don't even remember if there was a similar one in the 1973 version. Pilate here was superb, a lot better than the 1973 movie, so with Caipphas and Annas. They may have been a bit much, but hey, this is theatre. I wasn't impressed with Herod. What I couldn't quite take though, was that Jesus was played with too much humanity, as if he lost his Godhood. Glenn Carter pouted too much, he cried too much. I thought that Ted Neeley had more fire in his eyes. Glenn's Gethemane was alright, but I've heard Michael Ball in a concert do better. Jerome Pradon was interesting but he wasn't Carl Anderson. I liked the film being staged in an indoor set with a lot of interesting possibilities. The set was not limited at all. The interviews showed many points of view, how the actors/singers approached their parts, how the technical bits were put together.
50 Better than Jewison's dated 1973 version
Gale Edwards succeeds in liberating JCSS from the inspiration of HAIR and other time-locked musicals of the late 60s/early 70s era as memorialized in Jewison's dated film.
Musically more consistent then Jewison's version. The backing tracks are closer to the original 'soundtrack' (which is still the best for pure listening). This version lacks Carl Anderson's and Ted Neely's vocal tension, but makes up for it with the secondary characters (notably a Pilate and a Herod that improve greatly on the Jewison version).
The Jewison film was already dated when it first appeared in theaters--it had a tired, hippy dippy look that was an embarrassment to look at.
This version has a more modern avant-garde approach (portraying Herod as manic broadway impressario which is implied in the Superstar lyrics anyway and the use of Darth Vader like clothing for the Roman soldiers). This version is likely to be the filmed version that others have to top and it may be 20 years before someone attempts it. It does use sparse stage settings that school/community theaters are likely to use as either a model or inspiration for their own avant garde stagings that juxtapose 20th (or 21st) century elements with more traditional Roman elements.
51 Very intense
This is a fantastic version of my all time favorite musical. Jesus and Judas Play their parts perfectly. Much better than the 1973 version b/c it's more realistic, and more intense musically. Get this if you like Jim Steinman and Meat Loaf's Bat Out of Hell, and you might still like it even if you don't.
52 A creative but uninspiring version of the rock opera
In seems to me that pretty much every singer in this production of "Jesus Christ Superstar" made a concerted effort to try and sing these familiar songs in "new" ways, or at least ways in which we have not heard on previous cast albums and video versions (although the finish of "Gethsemane (I Only Want to Say)" is something I first heard on Michael Crawford's version of the song). The result is pretty much guaranteed to be a hit and miss proposition for fans of the show, which simply means you will see things that you like and things you do not like. I especially liked the way the "Thirty-Nine Lashes" were dramatized and using the nailing Jesus (Glenn Carter) to the cross as the ironic counterpoint to the emergence of the "Superstar" theme. I was considerably less enthralled with the smirking Judas (JŽr™me Pradon), Jesus banging his hand on the table during the Last Supper, and Herod (Rik Mayall) being played as a cross between Noel Coward and Hannibal Lecter. I expect any viewer to have a similar response, albeit with different examples of what they liked or disliked in this filmed play production.
The "Making Of" documentary that is available on the DVD lends some insights into the creative efforts of director Gail Edwards and the thinking of the key cast members, as well as the history of the work. What develops is an emphasis on the songs and story from a personal perspective more than scriptural, which explains why they have the idea that Judas is jealous of Mary Magdalene because she has usurped his rightful position at the right-hand of Jesus. The insights from Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber are certainly interesting as is the history of the controversial rock opera. Overall, the singing is certainly better this time around than in Norman Jewison's 1973 film, but not as memorable for me as the original concept album (but, then, how could I be?). However, for the most part the emotional impact of this production seems to be lacking. Part of the problem is that the tempo of the music is just a tad slow where the tendency is rather to pick up the pacing (case in point, "Jekyll and Hyde: The Musical"). Another part of the equation is that Carter's Jesus is not charismatic and his eyes lack the fire of Ted Neely in the movie version. So there is enough of interest here to worth watching once, but repeat viewings will not be to everyone's taste.
53 Horrible, Awful, Terrible, Torturous and Talent less
I was excited about the new modern look and sound. Everything was right, then Judas began singing "Heaven on their minds" and it was downhill from then on. He sounded like Bono with an even bigger whine. Jesus could not be any more bland than a cardboard sandwich.
Norman Jewison knows how to portray passion, love and agony and knows how to find the people with the talent to perform those emotions. Go get the Jewison version. This is a total waste of time!!!
54 Fantastic
I absolutely loved this version of the movie. Fred Johanson played an excellent Pilate. JŽr™me Pradon makes a very expressive Judas Iscariot, angry when anger is implied, worried when worry is implied.
My only problem with the film is Glenn Carter, he's a bit more screamy than musical on his higher notes.
But the rest of the cast makes up for it. Making it a great production.
55 A real treat for JCSS lovers!
I was amazed at how other reviewers either loved or hated this production. If you love JCSS as an "opera", you should love this production. I was one of the people who bought the original album back in 1970, before JCSS was ever performed as a musical, because I loved the music and words and the way they told the story. The movie version was a giant stinkeroni, so it was with great trepidation that I tuned into this PBS version. Was I ever thrilled, however. I have never been lucky enough to see a stage version of JCSS (though I have seen at least 6 other Andrew Lloyd Webber musical productions in San Francisco, so I am no stranger to professional theater) but this is pure Webber, and the performers voices are fabulous.
My son, who is the same age I was when I originally fell in love with the record, says this is his favorite musical (and he has seen many live productions too, including Phantom in New York!). It is not because he grew up with the music, because we haven't has anything to play my record on for many years - most of his life. It is just because it is a great musical (believe me, he is not influenced by my opinions about anything!).
There is no question this is not your typical musical - it is more like Evita than like Phantom, and if you are looking for The Sound Of Music, which I also love, you will not like this - but this 54-year-old and her 21-year-old son give it 2 thumbs WAY up!
56 Painful viewing
This is the worst adaptation of this musical -- ever! This was my first experience with JCSS and after watching the video, I hated it -- vowed never to watch or listen to anything related to this musical ever again.
The leads, although obviously talented, are not suited for the range needed to sing these songs. At times, listening to Pradon as Judas is just too painful for words. The only saving grace of this video version is the supporting cast -- Caiaphas: Frederick B Owens, Annas: Michael Shaeffer, Simon Zealotes: Tony Vincent, Peter: Cavin Cornwall .
Avoid this at all costs. I was later introduced to the 1973 film version and fell in love with the story and the music. Ted Neely and Carl Anderon are wonderful and hit every note just right. Buy the 1973 version instead and save yourself a headache.
57 A sadly downsize of 2000 Broadway production
The video will work OK for you, if you haven't seen an absolutely amazing, bright and soul turning Broadway production of April 2000, with Tony Vincent as Judas. This video is a pale copy of Broadway original. Jerome Pradon is inexpressive, slow and formally acting, comparing to Vincent. That is a very sad change. I wish they would ever make a recording of 2000 production as it was!
58 "Stuperstar" Lives Up to Its Name
I saw this version for the first time on PBS about 2 Easters ago and was in tears long before it was over. I ordered a copy for Christmas that year and have almost worn it out. Also have the CD which I play in my car to and from work (Heaven help me if I ever have an accident and the rescuers get to me while "Herod's Song" is playing...they'll never believe it!)! For both the CD and this video, unbelievably wonderful is too mild a description. The music, the settings, the total design are all perfection. Glenn Carter (Jesus) is awesome! Jerome Pradon (Judas) is superb! Tony Vincent (Simon Zealotes) is fantastic! Pilate and Herod are totally wonderful and almost steal the show! And Caiphas and his cohorts will absoluely leave you limp! The ultimate JCS! 5 stars just aren't enough to give this one!
59 A Wonderful Expirience
The new version on JCSS is absolutely fantastic. Glenn Carter is an absolute shoe-in for the role, along with the other actors.
I always find myself crying or in awe at the end of this video. All of the performances and effects are extremely well done and the sound quality is at its best.
If you love Andrew Lloyd Webber [as much as I do], then this MUST be in your collection. If you've never heard of him before: buy it anyway! Don't let the title throw you. You don't have to be a religious person to enjoy this. The music will move you no matter what genre you enjoy.
...
60 If I could have rated it lower I would have.
Hated it... just hated it!
61 The Gospel is no Longer according to Judas
... I had great hopes for this production. I saw it on Broadway, and was disappointed in the loss of Gospel of Judas... Hoping the DVD would be more noteworthy, I purchased for my collection - it retained the dullness that was not part of the, in my opinion, original intent of Lloyd/Rice. rather than completing Judas' story (his self-murder) the story ends simply with the crucifixion. A shame and travesty. Hey, Sir Andrew: Why the re-write?
62 it sucks
This is the worst movie I've ever seen.I actually had to stop watching it about 30 minutes into it. Thismovie is no where near as good as the 1973 version. The older version has better voices, better actors, better sets, better costumes, better directing, better anything and everything.
63 Pure processed cheese
Acting: Mostly overwrought, except for Jesus, who just stands around looking worried, breathing hard when he wants to indicate emotions. The actor/singers portraying Pilate and Herod do much better jobs than their material deserves.
Singing: Mediocre. Jesus has a wimpy voice that disappears in the mix on all his dramatically important high notes, Judas can't hit his high notes at all. Peter has a voice but rarely gets to use it. Again, Pilate and Herod are the standouts.
Direction: Clueless. Actors are given no stage business and do not relate to their surroundings. The song order of the last part of the movie is rearranged so that it makes no sense at all. Everyone is encouraged to make histrionic faces instead of acting.
Score: Lame. Has neither the energy of rock music nor the subtlety of opera. Maybe some day someone will make it work.
Cinematography: It's fine; the camera is probably used as well as it can be on a limited set that looks like a limited set.
Costumes: Laughable. The director talks, in the additional material, about how important it was for this production to look contemporary. Apparently, this means gay bars, circa 1983.
In all, a mediocre waste of time. If you're a Lloyd Webber fan, you'll love it.
64 Incredibly big shoes to fill.
As a recent convert (no pun intended) to "Jesus Christ Superstar" fandom, I looked forward to the 2000 version with only slight reservation. Truth be told, the only real reservation I had was the knowledge that, unlike the 1973 motion picture, the 2000 version (based on a recent London stage revival) was shot entirely on video. That in mind, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that directors Gale Edwards and Nick Morris utilized clever cinematography to give the stage production a very cinematic feel. Unfortunately, that's about where the pleasant surprises ended for me. Apart from occasional standout performances delivered by supporting cast members, "Jesus Christ Superstar 2000" suffers seriously in comparison with its superlative 1973 predecessor. Glenn Carter (Jesus) and Jerome Pradon (Judas) have the difficult task of filling the incredibly big shoes of Ted Neeley and Carl Anderson in the original motion picture. Carter, who looks like he could be the possible offspring of Peter Fonda and the lead singer from that awful 80s hairspray band White Lion, has a fine voice which may have served him better if he'd attempted to find his own range rather than attempting to re-create Neeley's. Pradon has the most difficult job of the two, in my opinion, and although I give the man points for the guts it must have required to take on a role so brilliantly portrayed by Anderson in 1973, his chiseled good looks and powerful voice are simply not enough to make anyone forget the fact that somewhere in America, muddled in the obscurity of bit parts, there exists a 57-year-old man that rightfully should have become a superstar of stage and screen. Even the beautiful, vocally gifted Renee Castle (Mary Magdalene), despite her best efforts, pales in comparison with the genuinely moving and captivating performance of Yvonne Elliman as the original Magdalene. In addition the musical interpretations, although superior in sound quality to what you'll find on the dvd of the original motion picture, fall short. But it's not all bad news about "Jesus Christ Superstar 2000", for it succeeds wonderfully on one level: it makes you want to race out and buy yourself a copy of the original movie, which stands as one of the few motion picture musical masterpieces of the latter 20th century.
65 GREAT SCORE! TOO MANY FLAWS
If you haven't heard of Jesus Christ Superstar Buy the CD (see the lists they tell the truth) then the movie this one is only for true JCS fans whom can hear past Jerome Prad—n screaming & screaching through all the songs. I sounded as if he was siging falsetto up to Alto He has a limited range. Glen Carter was awesome but came up short in the falsetto Ted Nealy was 100 times better at falsetto When Ted did it, it was strong and confident. But Glen's falsetto seemed to fade and was unsure in Gethseneme. Fred Johnsson was a great singer AWFUL actor! Herod sucks big time! Annas is perfect! Ciaphas shouldn't have raised his voice (Peter Gallagher is a better Bass)
1973 BETTER SINGING NOT AS GOOD ACTING
2000 AWFUL ACTING BETTER SINGING
1973's Singing + 2000's acting = London cast from 1972
(I'm 13 but I heard it from my mom)
66 I wanted to like it... much more than I did
I was very much looking forward to watching this. My parents had the brown covered, two albumn set of JCSS... and I long ago learned of (and viewed) the delightful 1973 film version. It was dated the first time I saw it-- so much so that it seems less out of place now that retroing to the 70s is a respectable business.
And then came along this one.
Had I not seen the first film and never seen or heard JCSS performed, I would have adored this movie. It has a good deal going for it. The must, as always, rocks. Renee Castle carrys off Mary Magdalene's tunes without a hitch. Simon Zealotes, a character that has never stood out, for me, previously grabbed me in as performed by Tony Vincent. I experience an eerie joy each time Jerome Pradon's Judas mocks JC. The DVD also has a fun "making of"-- with Tim Rice and A.L.W. prominent throughout-- discussing with candor what they were (and were not) trying to accomplish.
So, why three stars? Most of the blame-- and blame is the correct word, since this film could have been great-- lies with Gelnn Carter as Jesus. The shortest sentence in the bible, allegedly, is, "Jesus wept." You would not know it from watching Carter's Christ. No, in this version: Jesus pouted. Again and again. The character of Jesus with his big pouty face (from the beginning when Judas questions Mary M. to the end when is whipped) hurt the film and detracted from its credibility. (Perhaps if you watch on a small enough screen this would not be a problem.) I suspect that Carter is used to performing on stage and so he overdose it so that the backrow knows he is crying. Unfortunately, the camera puts us in front of the front row, directly in front of his face, and he just looks silly.
And then there is Herod. I guess it is not really fair to be critical. I doubt anyone will ever match Josh Mostel's Herod. This Herod was okay. But the scene has so much potential, it is disappointed to see it carried off only adequately.
In short, if you are only going to see one, then stick with the 1973 version. It is superior. But there is a lot to enjoy on the DVD-- It is not a waste of time.
67 It's not your Daddy's JCSS
As many of those who've reviewed this presentation of the classic, I grew up with my parents owning the two album set of the London recording. Whenever I'm reading the lyrics (or listening to whichever version of the albums I happen to hear), it's the original words and beat I keep to. Much to the consternation of those around me, especially if the two are different (as one web-page noted, they are ALL different, a little!). I have to say, I have NEVER SEEN ANY OTHER VIDEO PRODUCTION of this ... event. So I cannot compare it to any of the older productions, except for the music.
The Music is ... the music. It's bright, sad, driving and wallowing in its own miseries, pulling you into the emotions with the singers.
However, having heard rumors of other productions (a tank in the desert?), I wasn't terribly expecting this to be Charleton Heston's The Bible quality. When I saw the costuming, I knew I was right - This isn't what my parents loved. It's newer, hotter, more ... today.
Each version has it's place, I think. Bring someone in who's never heard the music or seen any of the productions. They'll be able to stay awake with this one. Gradually, you can work them towards the more "historical" adaptations.
But, my favorite "bit" in this movie has GOT to be when Judas was sitting on the Cross Jesus was trying to carry, mockingly holding out one of the "mini-bibles" made by the Gideons. I about died laughing. Cruel? Mocking? Sure. Why not. From what I've heard of the other productions, we've gone from the dead-pan historically accurate to the odd ...
Because, no matter WHO sings them, the songs are JUST THAT GOOD.
68 Horrible.
So this is what our Moulin Rouge culture has done to us. In order for musicals to be entertaining, they must have all of the following: hard-rock scores, overly dramatic expressions, bright costumes (all leather, just so people can pay attention to the characters), gyrating hips, and thongs. We must have thongs in order to sit through these musicals.
As a Jesus Christ Superstar fan, this version was a huge disappointment. However, I've never seen the play performed, and frankly, I don't want to. There isn't a stage director who can pull off a decent production of this dated play. So if you can't make it good, make it cool to the majority of the idiots who watch movies.
As soon as the movie started, I was disappointed. I don't want to see it in a modern-day setting. I don't like the modern score. I want to see hippies prancing around in the desert, dammit! I grew up listening to the original concept recording and saw the Norman Jewison film many times. That's what I want to see! I don't want to see Roman guards who are dressed like comic book villians. I don't want the high priests to look like aliens. I don't want the "Pilate's Dream" scene to look like porn! WHY?!
In addition to the poor "modern" adaptation, this version is plagued with horrific acting. Renee Castle is pretty good...she could carry the whole production. Jerome Pradon as Judas is crap. His portrayal of Judas as Jerusalem's bully is ridiculous, overdramatic, and unconvincing. However, when he begins to sing, he seems whiney. I kept trying to figure out what he was attempting to do; when he performed "Damned For All Time," he kept running all over the place, and I kept thinking, "Why???"
Caiaphas kept looking like Mr. T to me, and I was expecting him to sing, "I pity the fool who loves Jesus!" at any time. His group of high priests walked around looking like some kind of gang. The actor who played Pilate looked like he only got the part because he can sing and has played villians. He makes you wonder how such an evil looking person came into power in the first place.
The apostles all dressed in Abercrombie-like clothes and acted so happy and joyful around each other. "Hey, it's Jesus. Let's all hug each other and smile and honor him now." It did seem logical during the Last Supper like all of Jesus's words were way over their heads.
When the comic relief (the intended comic relief, at least) finally comes in as Herod, played by Drop Dead Fred himself (Rik Mayall). It could have been a good sequence if Mayall acting completely off-base with his audio...is it that hard to lip sync to your own voice?
"Could We Start Again Please," my favorite song, also could have been a good sequence, if it wasn't mixed with a beating of Jesus. It wasn't upsetting at all...it was too dramatic and filled with slow motion shots of Jesus being thrown around between a group of what looked like stormtroopers.
When the time for "Supestar" to be performed, I was so ready for it to be over. And it looked like a cross between a really bad music video and a Victoria's Secret commercial. I think it was supposed to be disturbing, but wasn't effective at all.
And then Jesus was crucified, and it was again trying to be shocking and disturbing. It could have been, if all of the actors weren't stretching their faces in "grief". Overall, the actors looked like they had just left an acting workshop and wanted to try out their new methods. If this is the type of acting they teach, it's surprising there isn't more worthless crap floating around out there. If you're interesting in seeing a good version of the play, see the Norman Jewison film. It might be cheesy and dated, but at least it isn't horrific filth.
69 FAMILY VIEWING
THE MUSIC IS GREAT, THE ACTORS ARE REALLY FINE. DON'T MISS THIS ONE. WE HAVE SAT TOGETHER OVER AND OVER AGAIN UNTIL WE EVEN KNOW THE WORDS. FACIAL EXPRESSIONS AND THE MESSAGE. GO FOR IT.
WE DID. THE DROHANS.
70 Takes superficiality to new depths
The new version of JCSS achieves something I thought impossible: it makes the old, wooden Norman Jewison version look pretty good.
Let's be positive. Renee Castle provides a much needed lift to the show in her interpretation of Mary Magdalene. She sings her numbers with intelligence, feeling, and sincerity. If it hadn't been for her, the whole thing would have been a wash.
Not so Glenn Carter in the role of Jesus. He comes off as a rehash of Donny Osmond's Joseph, with none of the charm of that production. (Come to think of it, some of the sets look like they were borrowed from Joseph too.) His acting is shallow, his singing is mediocre, and his main insight into the role seems to be, "Gee whiz, Ma, I'm in a musical." In fact, the only thing he succeeds in convincing you of is that pretty-boy rock singers should not be given adult parts. By the time we reached the flogging scene, I was ready to whack him too, just to wipe the stupid smile off his face. And listen to how he goes flat when he tries for high notes! Maybe that's why the rest of the cast sounded so uncharacteristically sincere when they were shouting, "Crucify him!"
Jerome Pradon's Judas is only marginally better. At least he manages to sing in tune. But he spends the first half of the show sadistically sneering, and then leads up to his suicide by whining like a two year old and folding up into a fetal curl. Flog him, too. Pradon did show a glimmer of humanity during the Last Supper, but it didn't last very long, and his reappearance to do a full-sneer interpretation of the theme song was just embarrassing. It's too bad, because he seemed like he might actually be an engaging performer if he had a director who knew what she was doing.
In the supporting roles: Caiaphas sounds (and dresses) like Mr. T; Pilate (in a Gestapo uniform--how original!) sounds like he's spent too many years doing bad-guy voices for children's cartoons. The compassion that Pilate is supposed to show before the sentencing was well beyond his emotional range. Meanwhile, the Roman guards look like Darth Vader, and the apostles are so out of place in their roles, they couldn't sell Bibles to Baptists.
What was director Gale Edwards thinking? How did she miss the fact that Judas is the main character in the show, not Jesus? How did she miss the fact that audiences need at least one character they can sympathize with? For that matter, how did she miss all the delicious sarcasm in the apostles' song during the Last Supper (absolute deadpan!)? And why did she put up with such plodding tempos for most of the numbers?
If you want a decent JCSS, get the original London cast album with Ian Gillian in the title role. At least that version has drama, musicality, and believability, all noticeably lacking in this one.
71 DIRECTOR'S VISION TOO DARK
FIRSTLY I HAVE BEEN A DEVOUT FAN OF SUPERSTAR SINCE IT CAME OUT 30 YEARS AGO, IN MY OPIOIN IT IS THE BEST THING WEBBER AND RICE EVER HAVE DONE. THE MOVIE VERSION BY NORMAN JEWISON IS VERY GOOD BUT I THOUGHT THIS PRODUCTION MIGHT ADD SOMETHING DIFFERENT SINCE IT IS A NEW RELEASE. I AM A BIT DISSAPOINTED HOWEVER BECUASE IT SEEMS SO DARK AND DISMAL. THERE IS NO LIGHT IN THE PRODUCTION,THE SET IS DARK AND GREY. GLEN CARTER GIVES A STRANGE PERFORMANCE,IN MY OPINION,NEVER CONNECTING TO THE FACT HE IS PORTRAYING JESUS,AND VOCALLY NOT ABLE TO GIVE THE UMPH! THE ROLE REQUIRES,YET JUDAS IS VERY GOOD. MARY IS VERY GOOD, AS WELL AS THE REST OF THE IMMEDIATE CAST EXCEPT PILATE. PILATE'S DREAM IS GOOD BUT THE OTHER SCENES WITH HIM GO FROM GOOD TO BAD VERY QUICKLY DUE TO OVERACTING AND SCREAMING I AM SURE AT THE DIRECTORS REQUEST. I COULD NOT WATCH THE END OF THE MOVIE BECUASE I FELT CHEATED. LISTEN OR WATCH THE ORIGINAL AND NOTE THE PORTRAYAL OF PILATE-IT IS EXCELLENT. I FELT THE DIRECTOR DID SOME VERY GOOD THINGS IS THIS VERSION BUT FELT HE SCREWED-UP AS MUCH AS HE MADE GOOD. THIS IS NOT A DARK DISMAL STORY,THERE ARE SEVERAL POINTS OF LIGHT IN IT. IT IS THE LAST DAYS OF CHRIST THROUGH THE EYES OF JUDAS. IF YOU HAVE NEVER HEARD THE ORIGINAL OR SEEN THE MOVIE I SUGGEST YOU SHOULD BEFORE BUYING THIS VERSION.
72 It's super!
Well, I remember when I first saw Jesus Chirst Super Star on the stage was 1990 in Korea. Of course, the actors were Korean and the lyrics were in Korean. Then, I saw it again in 1994 in Seoul. Finally I had a chance to see it in London in 1996. It was so excellent, and I never forget the great musical.
Now, I have an great opportunity to keep the DVD of JSC for good.
I was so surprised that it is much different from 1996 version, and it has more modern than before.
But, still I am so impressed by Andrew, and the director of this film.
Whenever I see this DVD, I remember the scene in London, and I want to recommend it to my friends.
I prefer Steve Balsamo as Jesus, though. I don't think Glen Carter is better than him. Anyway, Glen was Simon in 1996.
73 Catchy tunes make this a musical you'll remember
I really enjoyed this musical. "Everything's all right" is my favorite song. What I really love about Andrew Lloyd Webber's musicals is that the music is very catchy. It's impossible not to sing along and anticipate the rhymes. Even the next day I could sing a few lines of most of the songs. I think this is a CD you can watch several times without getting bored, the music is that good.
If you like this one I think you'll like Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat as well (I like Joseph even more).
74 MAKES A MOCKERY OF OUR SAVIOR
THIS SAD MOVIE IS DANGAROUS IT IS A MOVIE THAT SEEMS TO BE A RELIGIOUS MOVIE BUT ALL THE WHILE TREATING CHRIST LIFE AS A SILLY MUSICAL STAY AWAY FROM THIS MOVIE
75 I love it!
Being raised on Jesus Christ Superstar, I have to say that I was perfectly thrilled when this new version arrived. I am not thrilled with some of the high notes of Glenn Carter but he was a great actor. I did see the show live and was so impressed with the modern staging. Big difference from the desert version! I have only one complaint about this video- I wish it was filmed as one would have seen it live. I didn't like all the trick shots and some of the camera angles. Being a person who saw it live, I noticed some scenes were not included in the video. Overall, it was fantastic. By the way, the kids (both 6 years old) sing just about all the songs. Buy it!!
76 I wish this was good.
I am a reasonable man. I don't like being a bad person. I realise that this production would have taken thousands of man hours and so many people would have poured their soul into this vision, this creation, this, this, this... I hope what I am about to write doesn't make me a bad man. I spent my money on this dvd and I unfortunatly spent it sight unseen. It was an impulse buy. Why did I impulse buy! JCSS is my favorite stage show. I love the power, the energy the story the genious of Webber and Rice. I didn't think I could ever have bad thoughts about it. Until now. So bad are my thoughts I am compelled to sit here at Uni when I should be working and write this. This version has taken a new "modern" aproach and I can not agree less with that. The priests and pharasies are ridiculous in their "lets be hip and ulrta modern" place of plotting. I can see what was trying to be done. I can see and to a certain degree agree with the theory lets gets JCSS out of flairs but I still think it should be executed so differently. Wheather you love the show for its story or song theres no excuse for it to be off the mark historically. The show is essentially about Judas' inner struggle with the ultimate betrayal. So please tell me why he sings Heaven on their minds to Jesus ( Even if jesus is there for symbolism sake- why). Why does Jesus sing to the pharasies in Hossana. It made my so annoyed I bought this. I could have spent my money on forty newspapers wet them all, convinced my friends to beat me with them until I was dead and I would have more fun. Poor performances were a stand out feature of this two hours of pain. Why cast a jesus who doesn't have the range? Why cast a Judas who has a voice I got tired of by the time he had told me his mind is clearer now. I tryed to pull positves ou of ot. But there just wasn't alot to pull (don't be dirty). The costuming was decent it just should have been used in another movie. I think the effort on behalf of the cast was there- it just wasn't convincing. I felt nothing for the characters. Jesus did't make me feel his pain when he was facing his ultimate demise. Judas did't take me on his journey of the painful chioce (can someone tell me why Judas acted like a naughty smart-alec child rather a grown man- wow that was annoying) I'm sorry- just one more thing. STAGE SHOWS DON'T WORK ON SCREEN UNLESS THEY ARE MADE INTO A MOTION PICTURE. THEY DON'T WORK IN THIS RIDICULOUS HALF STAGE HALF MOVIE I WANT TO STAB MY EYES OUT FORM. All in all a good try but I believe it just didn't quite work.
77 Outstanding stage reproduction
I watched both versions (original '70s and this one) back to back. The raw energy of the singing is outstanding in this version...a little flat in the other (like someone left out the stereo...). Not having to deal with sweeping scenery, it zooms in on emotion in the faces...the songs are the stars here....not the desert. I think people (especially young people) can relate much better to this updated modern version. Also...note how Jesus' wardrobe changes throughout the play...first appearing in cargo pants, muscle shirt and tennies and gradually reverts to the dress of antiquity. Judas is outstanding, and Pilate blew me away. Jesus' song to God in the Garden is much more powerful here. In the other version, you don't see Ted Neeley's face through much of it...he's too busy climbing a rock. This is a MUST SEE for JCS fans!!!
78 A well done revision of a classic
As Lent rolls around every year, I always pull out my well-worn copy of Jesus Christ Superstar on CD. (I wore out the album, twice). The music of ALW and Rice is superb and moving. I've seen the Jewison version of this movie a number of times, and my fiance and myself actually thought that's what we were buying on DVD when we purchased this copy...however. It didn't take us long to figure out this wasn't the same movie we'd seen before.
In terms of the sheer power of the story, this newest entry into the market is head and shoulders above the Jewison rendition. While I much preferred the way the first JCSS was filmed (on location, etc.) the performances in the Edwards' film were much more powerful. It pays to remember that when ALW/TR wrote the original score, their goal was to bring Christ to the people of the day. This staging certainly accomplishes that, even if it's not really my 'style.'
Glenn Carter as Christ is tormented by his 'role' as the Messiah, obviously conflicted about his relationship with Judas (more on Pradon later), often poignantly affected by his coming trials. His voice did seem a bit 'weak' for the material, but it is the scenes of him in the final moments (after his arrest through his cruxifiction) that reduced me to tears. He lives the pain...it is apparent in every move he makes, every expression on his face.
Judas...what can I say. From the first moment, he captured me. I've never seen Judas as the cold, calculating man he is frequently portrayed to be. To me, he was a puppet in the hands of a power he couldn't begin to understand. He is afraid for Christ and the apostles, that much is made clear. To him, it's a obviously a case of saving Jesus from himself...but it backfires when he realizes what the Romans really have planned. Pradon in this role is perfect. First of all, his voice is stunning. He sings this role as if it were written for him. He's just flashy enough without letting it intrude on the story he's telling. The scene where he realizes what he's set in motion with his kiss is one of the most moving depictions I've ever seen/heard/read of that moment in time. I'll be looking for more of his work (hopefully in English!)
Fred Johanson is amazing as Pilate -- a towering presence with a soul. The pathos in his voice and face (and body language) as he pleads with Jesus to 'help me help you' made me stop and think about Pilate in a very different way. Rik Mayall as Herod is perfect. Herod has frequently seemed 'silly' in other productions. Mayall's rendition makes him a bored aristocrat with a razor edge of nastiness under the surface. Not someone I'd want to meet in a dark alley. Renee Castle as Mary Magdalene is good -- arguably better than Yvonne Ellison as an actress, though I think perhaps Ellison's voice was a little more suited to the music. That could just be because I've never heard anyone else perform it.
This is NOT, repeat NOT, a movie to watch with your children. (Mature teens will do fine, but it's just too intense for the little ones.) There is some interesting costuming in the scene where Jesus is carrying his cross and the graphic intensity of the beatings/floggings/cruxifiction are very disturbing. That's part of what made this version more powerful for me. If you love the music and want to really feel the pathos of the last days, I strongly recommend this.
79 Can't stop watching!
Great up-to-date version of JCS. Have watched it over and over again, and each time it only gets better. Would definitely recommend as an addition to your dvd collection.
80 Head and Shoulders over the 1973 Ted Neeley version!
This is the version I always dreamed could be made! The vocals are all strong with the unfortunate exception of Mary Magdelyn whose voice is really a bit weak. The concepts are fresh and fitting and I just loved it!
81 The Greatest Story Ever Told.
I'm only thirteen but I was twelve when I first saw this. I really enjoyed it and watch it frequently. It's a musical that people of all ages enjoy. I think Tim Rice did a brilliant job on the lyrics and Andrew Lloyd Webber did a brilliant job on the music. I think all of the cast were brilliant especially Glenn Carter (Jesus), Jerome Pradon (Judas Iscariot) and Tony Vincent ( Simon Zealotes). There was no effort in Glenn Carter's voice. He was incredible and a great actor. The music is wonderful. The film and music is creative genius. There is no end to the good comments I could give.Tony Vincent was also brilliant. He looked great for the part of Simon, he's a brilliant actor and one of the best voices in the cast. I think that a lot of young and older people don't understand the story of Jesus but I think that if they watch this then they will start to understand what happened between him and Judas and that Judas was not the bad guy. God intended Jesus to die and decided he would be the one to betray Jesus. I think that it could not have been written as better as it has been. If Jesus knew he was God, then where's the pain and real part of the story? In my opinion I think it was brilliant and I give it 5 stars. Not just for the film but also for the music, cast and the way it was written.
82 Hey JC JC You're Alright By Me
Wow! I completely loved this movie! I go to a Catholic School so I'm glad that the director of this movie made Jesus seem like a man for once. Judas almost had me in tears! I think that he is an amazing actor and had me on his side from Strange thing Mystyfing to after his death. Mary hasa beautiful voice and she captured everything that she felt in her facial expression. Cheers to her! Renee Castle (the actress who played mary)did an amazing performance in I dont know how to love him which was a beautiful song. However, I think that Glenn Carter was not right for the part of Jesus. Why did he keep trying to sing so high? The part wasnt right for his voice range (me being a singer myself at the new england conservatory). Overall this was an excellent movie...a must have!
83 The Great Jesus Christ Superstar
I had watched the 70s film version of JCS and was not impressed much, then I had this DVD. I was captured right from the beginning and couldn't believe how great it is! This production is a piece of theatre caught on screen. I experienced everything I could have experienced in a real theatre while sitting in the front row: the realness, the dramatics, and the rawness, plus the surround Dolby 5.1, which, however, cannot be experienced from the stage. This musical itself is the kind of show that no matter where the stage is set, the essence and the musicality will always be there. However, when it is set in the 90s New York City, the effectiveness of the drama is magically amplified and intensified. Moreover, the T-shirt garbed, young and vigorous disciples in the hippest hairstyles, and the catchy choreography are simply closer to the young people at our time.
Musical is meant for the theatre and stage. It needs a stage, no matter if it is a real stage or one on screen. Once the play is set on the stage, everything falls into place. The theatrical acting becomes quite captivating. I could point out a few weaknesses of the vocal delivery in the show, but they are complemented by the greatness of the acting.
"He is a man, he's just a man." While Glen Carter reveals the human nature of Jesus Christ very truthfully (definitely with credit to his look and figure), he couples the outside softness with the inner strength very well and creates the profoundness and extraordinariness of Jesus. "Every word you say today gets twisted round some other way." The complexity of Judas is more emphasized on his loyalty to his mission, rather than his greediness. Jerome Pradon, taking on the most challenging part in both acting and singing, is remarkably good. "I don't know how to love him." The soothing and smooth voice of Renee Castle distinguishes herself as the best Mary Magdalene I've ever heard. Tony Vincent, Wow! Just couldn't be better. The ardency in his singing and acting catches the rebelliousness of Simon Zealotes brilliantly.
This is the show that once you start watching, you won't be able to pull yourself out. So get yourself a comfortable chair, let music wash you, let emotions drown you, let words and melodies hit, sadden, and inspire you. This is the magic created by Andrew Lloyd Webber, Tim Rice, Gale Edwards, the cast, and many others.
84 ;0)
I am 14 and saw this version about five weeks ago with my friends. Since then I have fallen in love with it and have watched it atleast 3 times a week since then. I can safely say that I know a lot of the fine details when watching this. Although I am not Christian I found this production completely compelling. I think that Glenn Carter as Jesus icould have been better cast as he does not seem to portray the part very realistically but the costume progression is very interesting. Whereas, Judas by Jerome Pradon is marvellously put across and even if the voice does go in some parts I think this adds effect as he is supposed to be dying. I also like the the black leather jacket for his costume but he cannot walk in his shoes and the costume for "Superstar" is quite tacky. Renee Castle as Mary Magdelane is supberb and conveys feeling magnicentally, and is very pretty. The other parts of Annas, Caiphas and Pontius Pilate are also well done and entertaining. The apostles do seem to get on rather well and of a high standard of acting, particularly Simon Zealotes (Tony Vincent) as my friend would say. Overall I like the way this production is shown on screen although still like theatre. Gale Edwards as director has done a very good job
85 NEAR perfect
This is an absolutely terrific production in many ways. First, the overall look is fresh and vibrant. It's well directed and the costumes are terrific. Each character's costumes really make a statement about the character, a simple shirt and khakis for Jesus, a sexy but not slutty dress for the conflicted Mary, black leather for tormented Judas, a sleveless camoflauge shirt for the rebellious Simon Zealot. It's simply brilliant on every technical level. What most impresses me about the production is how the director manages to keep intact the feel of a theatrical, not cinematic, experience, while using the video to escape all the theater's limitations. The sets are very bare, yet still complement the action on stage without overwhelming it. Particularly brilliant is the cross made of stage lights.
OK, onto the cast. Renee Castle is the absolute best Mary Magdalene, period, end of story. Her acting and singing are both superior. Everytime she's on screen she grabs your attention-portraying a wealth of emotions in a single facial expression. "I Don't Know How to Love Him" is gorgeously sung, and she uses it to really give insight into Mary's feelings, while avoiding the overpowering Diva tendencies of other people who have sung this song. Her "Could We Start Again Please" will make you want to cry.
I loved Jerome Predon as Judas. His voice is powerful, and he really makes you understand the complex nature of this character. He manages to convey every aspect of the character, Judas' cynicism and self-hatred, his loneliness, his compassion, his alienation from Christ and the other disciples, while still making us see his deep love for them. Actually, Judas, not Jesus, is really the protagonist of Jesus Christ Superstar. It's no easy feat to make an audience sympathize with Judas, but Predon pulls it off.
Also of note in a smaller role is Tony Vincent as Simon Zealot. He really only has one big moment in the Hosanna sequence but he makes the most of it. Extrodinary voice.
Unfortunately the rest of the cast isn't quite as strong. Glen Carter does a very good, but not fantastic Jesus. My main complaint about him is his constant use of falsetto. Obviously he thinks his falsetto is one of his strong points-which it's not. It just sounds screechy, and thus ruins some of the most emotionial moments in the play, like the Gethesmane number, which is otherwise brilliant. If he'd have stuck with his fine normal range, he'd have been perfect.
The other bad performances are Pilate and Rik Mayall as Herod. The guy playing Pilate overacts laughably, with his eyes nearly bugging out of his head at every take. His voice is great, but his expressions are like something out of a cartoon. And, speaking of cartoon, Rik Mayall is God-awful (pardon the pun) as Herod. The man can't sing, act, or dance. I've never been wild about Herod's number anyway-it's OK, but having that big comedy number at that place in the play completely cuts the dramatic build from the arrest to the crucifixion. In my opinion it should be cut from every production, or at least moved to earlier in the play.
Overall, though, this is the version to see. I'd really call it four and a half stars, just short of perfect, but that isn't available.
86 Top of the Pole
I agree with an earlier reviewer that this version is different than the 73 film. It takes a bit of time to get used to it. For me it was hard not to see some of the actors / singers from the earlier film, particularly Carl Anderson. Once I got over the adjustment, I found this production to be simply wonderful. Because it is shot on a set rather than outdoors, and because of the advances in cameras etc. the viewer is transported into the action. You see all the subtle facial expressions and interactions between the characters that is simply missing from the technically challenged Jewison film. There is for example, no "day for night" film that leaves one barely able to make out Jesus singing the climactic song in the Garden of Gethsemane. Glen Carter is refreshing as Jesus though I, unlike many others, always liked Ted Neeley's performance. Jerome Pradon presents an engaging Judas. Chiaphas and Annas are perhaps a bit over the top, yet they are entertaining, as is Pilot. I still am debating the appropriatness of giving the Romans/Pilot's uniforms a Nazi look, and I think Pilot's Characterization is over stated, but it is very intense, captivating and powerful. Mary is beautiful and has the greatest voice of any of the Marys to date. Her presentation of "I Don't Know Hot to Love Him," in my opinion the most important song in the musical, is breath taking. In my estimation, I think this version, with modern look and feel, will help make the entire piece more approachable to younger viewers. It will better communicate the emotions of fear and pain that Christ experienced. The strength of Superstar has always been the ability to make Jesus more than just an historical figure. He is someone who was real, as was his sacrifice. Another valuable perspective is that of Judas. He is more complex than is traditionally presented. This Judas is someone who has faults, but they are similar to the everyday faults we all share. Superstar portrays Judas as committed to the ministry, but not fully committed to Jesus. He is competitive with Christ to the point that he thinks he can force his hand if Christ is arrested. The motivations for Judas's betrayal are akin to subtle self centeredness that most of us battle on a regular basis, and they stem from his ego rather than his greed. This production best conveys to youth today some sense of what these real people actually felt and how they experienced life. A few years ago, I showed the 73 film to a youth group. They were so turned off by the very obvious 70's characterizations, costumes and choreography, that they laughed at some of the most powerful and intense moments. No one does that with this version. The 39 lashes is most powerful as is the "Could We Start Again" seqence. Again the voices from top to bottom are top notch without sounding too theatrical/formal which I have found to be distracting in other recent recordings. Alas, I simply find this production to be, in the words of one of the Pharisees, "top of the pole."
87 Fantastic!
This is one DVD/video you can't miss! Glenn Carter are GREAT! He's Jesus in this show and there's no doubt about that fact.
Jerome Pradon as Judas are fantastic and Renee Castle's Mary shines. This CD and video can't be missed! Carter and Pradon arts so fantasticly I'll have given them an Oscar if I could *G*
Must buy this CD and the video/DVD now
88 Amazing
This is one DVD/video you can't miss! Glenn Carter are GREAT! He's Jesus in this show and there's no doubt about that fact.
Jerome Pradon as Judas are fantastic and Renee Castle's Mary shines. This CD and video can't be missed! Carter and Pradon arts so fantasticly I'll have given them an Oscar if I could *G*
Must buy this CD and the video/DVD now!
89 Nice to see, but they could have used more talent
It's nice to have a Dolby 5.1 soundtrack, and the cinematography and visual aspects of the sets and actors is good overall, but almost all of the performers are pretty weak in either the ability or motivation to vocalize their parts well. It's worth buying if you're a JCS fan, but if you don't have a JCS DVD/tape yet I'd find a community theater playing it and go see it in person. The little group I saw in Buffalo a few years back had more singing talent than the people in this production. The older DVD isn't bad either, I'd rank it slightly above this one overall.
90 Dissapointed
After seeing the 70s version I had preconceived notions on the film. The actors, music and filming are all very good in this version. For me it was like reading the book "JAWS" and then seeing the movie. As a Christian, knowing the Biblical story, and anticipating the modernization of it, allowing for theatrical license - first, I prefer the original text, second I prefer the 70s version of this effort and would recommend others to them. For Webber and Rice fans I say I preferred Madonna in "Evita" and the film version of "CATS" to this particular screening of JCS.
91 Wow
I'm very passionate about theater and therefore very judgemental, but for this show I have nothing but praise. A good production should make you laugh or cry (or both) and I did a lot of crying towards the end of this one. Jerome Pradon as Judas takes a little warming to, at first he sounds a bit abrasive, but as the show goes on you realize how essential it is to his character.
Glenn Cater was great as Jesus (with an impressive range), you could really feel the emotional rollercoaster.
The sets were modern, minimal and very effective, the costuming fresh and interesting, just a wonderful production all over.
92 Not Even Worth One Star
Forgive them, Lord, for they know not what they do.
93 Awesome!
I am a huge Jesus Christ Superstar fan. I absolutely love it. I instantly fell in love with the original cast concept recording (Ian Gillan, Murray Head) and loved every minute of it. I had seen the original 70's movie and was a little disapointed. The sound quality was terrible and Ted Neeley (Jesus) had an annoying voice that he hardly ever took risks with. So when a firend told me that another one was out, naturally I was jazzed to see it. When I first saw it, I thought it was good but not great. I mean, I thought others could have pulled off the same thing better. But then I started watching it again and again and I realized how brilliant it was. It was absolutely marvelous. I mean, every single character is wonderfully placed! At first I thought that Judas had a bad voice and Zubin Varla (played Judas in 1996) would have done better. But as I listened, Varla always seemed mad in the recording. Jerome Pradon pulls off the character of Judas brilliantly. I think his acting pays off greatly as apposed to his singing. I aslo thought Glenn Carter was weak. But as I watched again and again, he is absolutely marvelous in that he captures what I think Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice wanted out of Jesus. Through Judas' eyes, Jesus was exactly what he was in this film. (for those of you who don't know it, JCS was written about the last days through JUDAS' eyes). Tony Vincent also pulls off the best portrayal of Simon I have seen along with his spectacular voice. I have introduced this film to many people all of which loved it. Anyway, I simply think it's a masterpiece.
94 Jesus Christ Superstar -- Disappointing
Jesus Christ Superstar of nearly thirty years ago is one of my all time favorite movies. I am not a religious person, but yet i find the Passion Play set to music to be extremely moving. So i was looking forward to seeing this new Jesus Christ Superstar in a updated fresher style; i was disappointed.
The character of Judas is a major character in the play and he should have a voice that one can easily listen to. I have to say that Judas has one of the worst voices i have ever heard, very weak and he sounds like he has a cold.
I also didn't like the character of Judas, i know, i know; it's not as if Judas is one of the most beloved characters of all time. But i think it would have been better to have shown Judas as a character who had a love for Jesus but also a distrust of what the movement would bring which eventually leads to the betrayal. One sees flashes of that love, especially towards the end; but for the majority of the movie Judas just has this obnoxious smirk and he is such a trouble maker and a difficult person that i found it hard to find a reason why he would have followed Jesus in the first place.
Well thank God for Jesus and Mary Magdeline, they could sing; although i found Jesus' voice not as full bodied as i think it should be. It sounded as if the sound editor muted his voice. Mary's voice is beautiful, she has the voice of an angel.
I was disappointed in the way Jesus was played. He seemed to me to be very weak and very uninspiring. How could this sad frustrated little man have attracted tens of thousands of followers? In this version Jesus had no charisma, a very bad trait in a spiritual leader.
The acting in this movie is stage acting which would look great if one is sitting several rows in front of the stage in a theater, but in a movie where one sees every emotion close up, it was way too much. I doubt there was much scenery left at the end of the production the way they were chewing it up.
Scene per scene i liked the old version better, except for the ending. The lashing and the crucifixation scenes in this version had a powerful effect on me. The thought that Romans used to do this to people and delighted in it and viewing Jesus receiving this cruel treatment, greatly saddened me. But the last fifteen minutes of this movie can't save it, it was just disappointing.
95 Fabulous...worth a shot to skeptics out there
Being a huge fan of musical theatre, I am very picky and like to think I have good taste. This interpretation is fabulous, in my opinion. Having read through the other customer reviews, it seems people either love it or hate it. True, there are some who fall into the "middle" category, but that was generally not the norm.
Personally, I think the singing is far better - in fact, this is the best recording I've heard. Jerome's Judas has an "edgy" quality to his voice, which I like, and I think fits the character. Glenn's Jesus is wonderful as well - he plays his role with patience, and at times, with frustration (slamming the table in "Argument"). Some reviewers commented that this was a flaw - like he couldn't make up his mind if he was angry or not. I think it's wonderful, really. The whole POINT to JC Superstar is that Christ was HUMAN. As a human, he is entitled to having tantrums here and there and conflicting emotions. He also has a beautiful voice, capable of hitting all those high notes.
I thought the Nazi costumes were absolutely brilliant! They are indeed very menacing. Same goes for the pharisees.
True, the movie is very...raw (as ALW put it), but it's also REAL. A crucifixtion is not a trivial little thing. It's a bloody, gory mess, and if you want to be true to the facts, it should also be portrayed as such. I have seen pictures of crucifixtions, figurines, movies, etc... my entire life. After seeing them with such frequency, it really starts to desensitize you to what a crucifixtion really is. But this movie really, really, opened my eyes. It was as if I'd never seen a crucifixtion before in my life. It was *SO REAL* and really made me think about how us humans *treat* other humans.
So, this movie really moved me. I think the 1973 movie was a bit dated, to say the least. This version reaches out to younger audiences (like me) who weren't born yet in the early 70's! I think this movie was a breath of fresh air, and really breathed life into the musical. It is now, without a doubt, my favorite.
96 Hmm...
Is it RENT? Is it JCS? Who knows. But one thing is certain, Gale Edwards has done it again, stealing another production's concept and staging but it has unfotunatly backfired on her. But despite some poor casting, costuming and staging a few cast members have pulled through in a good way, making it a mediocre version of a great show.
Jerome Pradon displays the best acting skills of both his career and the video but sadly his voice is not suited to Judas, perhaps he should take over Glenn Carter's role?
Renee Castle puts on a good rendition of Mary despite copying Yvonne Eilmann's flaw of over-acting.
Tony Vincent as Simon is a delight to the ear, putting on a fabulous rendition of the role. His only flaw being his tatoo. ;)
Fred Johansson is my favorite Pilate. His deep voice, large body and authoritive presense is awe inspiring and perfect for the part.
Fredrick B. Owens makes a good Caiaphas and uses his bass appropriatly but could have perhaps sustained it.
Michael Shaeffer creates perhaps the definative Annas by being scary just by being him. A delightful taste of pure talent appearing not frequently enough.
The priests are superbly cast and are dark and threatening, creating wonderful atmosphere in "This Jesus Must Die".
The chorus is good and backs up the above mentioned people in their talent. It really is a shame to see most of the leads drag down what could have worked well but doesn't. My verdict: Either buy this for a good chorus, but the 73 version for a better show or go and see RENT to see how this staging SHOULD be done.
97 Best...JCS...ever!
Allow me to summarize Jesus Christ Superstar's plot for you, roughly:
John 11:1-19:41.
There you go. A bit out of order, but that's the story JCS presents to you in somewhat more modern, rock tones. And then there's a bit of history that goes with the rock opera.
Jesus Christ Superstar started out as a concept album based on the work of an up-and-coming British composer/lyricist team, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice. It was released in 1970, a hit in the US, and not long after, JCS was produced on Broadway. In 1973, a film by Norman Jewisson was produced, with some decidedly avant-garde choices of set and scenery, and a very '70s feel to the piece. JCS kept going strong, including the Australian / New Zealand concert tour in 1992-93 (with dramatic re-envisioning of the musical elements) and the major 1996 British revival, which created a second concept album and brought stardom for Glenn Carter when he took on the role of Jesus. (The 1970 concept album, Broadway cast recording, Australian cast recording, and 1996 concept album are all great entries in a cast album collection.)
In 1999, I believe, Gale Edwards revived the musical again, this time with rather minimalist staging (mostly centered around a very gothic set, with lighting as a major, major element) and starring Glenn Carter, again, as Jesus. The costuming was modern, with bizarre choices for the priests and Roman guards, as well as for the ensemble in the second act. Andrew Lloyd Webber, upon seeing this production, knew that it was the one that needed to be captured on film. So, a cast was assembled and made into one incredible movie.
Glenn Carter plays Jesus, and does a dang good job of it. He has a very distinctive voice and look for the role, such that he seems Jesus-ish even without a beard. Carter's performance throughout is strong, bringing particular portions (such as "Surely you're not saying we have the resources..." in Everything's Alright) to completely new life. He is very much a great physical presence in the film, and absolutely brings the house down with his rendition of Gethsemane, and it shows in this film.
French theatre star Jerome Pradon plays Judas Iscariot. His inimicable singing voice adds just the right dimension to Rice's lyrics over ALW's music time and time again. Visually, he re-defines the
