Other Titles • Godspell • Godspell - Folgt dem Herrn! (1973)
Synopses for Godspell (1973)
1.
Comparing Godspell to its near-contemporaries Jesus Christ Superstar and Hair is unavoidable, but Godspell has developed its own unique following. With their thrift-store-meets-circus-performer garb, the characters in David Greene's adaptation of the popular off-Broadway production may look more like the hippies in Hair than the biblical personages of Superstar. But Godspell isn't really about the "Age of Aquarius," nor does it adopt a dark or operatic tone towards its subject matter, the Gospel according to Matthew. The mood is, instead, upbeat and uplifting (at least until the crucifixion sequence).
The film opens with youthful city dwellers from various walks of life dropping their activities to follow John the Baptist (David Haskell from the original New York production). They sing ("Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord") as he leads them into a fountain where they are (metaphorically) baptized. There they meet Jesus (Victor Garber). Frizzy hair and mime makeup aside, the handsome young Garber (Titanic, Annie) is convincing in his film debut. Once baptized, they follow him around various scenic New York locations, singing and acting out passages from the Scriptures.
The largely unknown cast is talented and charismatic, but the film is only fitfully engaging on an emotional level because only Jesus, John, and Judas (Haskell again) emerge as distinct characters. Stephen Schwartz's pleasing pop-rock score, however, helps to smooth over the rough spots, and Robin Lamont's hit version of "Day by Day" remains a highlight. --Kathleen C. Fennessy
(15 votes)
2.
The Gospels according to '60s hippie counterculture in a film version of the stage musical. Jesus' life and teachings are illustrated in harmless rock songs ("Day by Day") and New York City locations.
(15 votes)
3.
"A most exhilarating experience" - Los Angeles Times
The international hit musical sensation Godspell comes to life in this exhilarating screen adaptation. An updated interpretation of the Gospel's lessons filled with unforgettable song and dance numbers, Godspell is rousing entertainment in the tradition of the classic rock operas Hair, Tommy, and Jesus Christ Superstar.
John the Baptist (David Haskell) gathers a diverse band of youthful disciples to follow and learn from the teachings of Jesus (Victor Garber, Titanic). They form a roving acting troupe that enacts the Parables through the street and landmarks of a brilliantly photographed contemporary New York City. High-spirited music, including the smash hit song "Day By Day" from Oscar-winning lyricist Stephen Schwartz (Original Song "Colors Of The Wind" and Original Score, Pocahontas, 1995) and show-stopping dance routines contribute to this superb family entertainment that's been called, "Funny and Beautiful…Incomparably Romantic." -Vincent Canby, The New York Times
(15 votes)
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