Review of Jesus Christ Superstar (1973) by Carlos M — 04 Dec 2015

Jesus Christ Superstar is a retelling of the final week of Jesus's life and is told mainly through the perspective of Judas Iscariot, though Jesus and Mary Magdalene contribute as well. The story follows the relationship of Jesus and his followers, but mainly that of Jesus and Judas. Judas is concerned at Jesus's growing popularity and the consequences he and others might face because of it. Jesus seems frustrated at the ignorance of his followers and often lectures them because of their naiveté. The plot follows the typical chronological order of events in the last week of Jesus's life with some deviation. Jesus is arrested, put on trial, brought before Pilate, etc. The film is unique for several reasons: it is a rock opera portrayal of Jesus Christ and it takes away the mythology of Jesus.

Since this film is a rock opera there is no spoken dialogue; every word is sung. The music in this film is catchy and memorable. Thanks to the musical genius of both Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber (the original writer and composer), this film contains many incredible songs. The performances are vital as well. The combined talent of Ted Neeley, Carl Anderson, and Yvonne Elliman create a musical to be remembered. Retelling the story of Jesus in this way is certainly a different approach and it really only works because it is a musical. Without the music, this film would be a complete "borefest.".

That is another reason the film is unique-because it takes away the mythology of Jesus and gives us a normal human Jesus, which is rather boring in my opinion. Without the music this movie would be on the top of my list for worst movies of all time. Without the elements that make Jesus interesting he becomes just another guy. Regardless, the film is still worth watching because it has great music.