Alongside 'Jesus Christ Superstar', released in the same year, 'Godspell' presents a 1970s take on the scriptures, with modern looking actors, rock songs, and 'hip talk'. Originally a stage production (which I've seen, and liked very much), this film opens out the action a bit but keeps the theatrical feel.
'Godspell' has some excellent songs, especially Day By Day, By My Side, and Turn Back O Man - the bits in between haven't dated that well, but some things do work, such as John/Judas being played by the same actor, and the ending sequences remain powerful.
A small but talented cast led by Victor Garber (many years before he turned up in the remake of Annie) sing, dance, and frolic their way through the tale of Jesus from the Baptism to the Last Supper. Their innocence and devotion is infectious and wonderful to watch.
How does it compare with 'Superstar'? That has more emotion and more depth to the songs, but each are valid and each are, in their own way, reverent to the Gospels. I've spent 25 years with 'Superstar' but this film version of 'Godspell' is a fascinating new addition to the rock opera genre for me.
'Godspell' has some excellent songs, especially Day By Day, By My Side, and Turn Back O Man - the bits in between haven't dated that well, but some things do work, such as John/Judas being played by the same actor, and the ending sequences remain powerful.
A small but talented cast led by Victor Garber (many years before he turned up in the remake of Annie) sing, dance, and frolic their way through the tale of Jesus from the Baptism to the Last Supper. Their innocence and devotion is infectious and wonderful to watch.
How does it compare with 'Superstar'? That has more emotion and more depth to the songs, but each are valid and each are, in their own way, reverent to the Gospels. I've spent 25 years with 'Superstar' but this film version of 'Godspell' is a fascinating new addition to the rock opera genre for me.