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Godspell

Godspell

List Price: $27.95
Your Price: $22.36
Product Info Reviews

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Rating: 4 stars
Summary: Surprisingly moving
Review: I've directed a production of the stage show GODSPELL, and had seen the film years ago. I had figured that being so familiar with the material, I would be terribly critical. Indeed, at times, I was. But by the time the finale came around, I had been won over. Victor Garber is really wonderful, a warm and comforting presence. Much of the music is energetic and rousing. At times, the hippie/street theater/clown aesthetic gets a little overbearing. I would have a hard time getting my younger friends, who disdain all things sixties, to give this a chance. A few of my Christian friends were upset that the film does not portray the resurrection. I contend that it is implied, and there is no mistaking the joyful and positive intent of this film.

Rating: 4 stars
Summary: not too bad
Review: After accepting a part in a small prodiction of Godspell I bought the movie to reasearch a little bit. At first it seemed kind of silly and of the wall, but after I got into I loved it.

Rating: 1 stars
Summary: NO!
Review: I did not like the movie godspell! I have seen other movies like Jesus Christ super star and it was much better. I believe that it made a mockery of what religion teaches us.

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: They should make more movies like this.
Review: If there were more movies like Godspell and Hair in the theatres today,I would spend all of time at the movies!These were actors and deserve a standing ovation. Hats off guys! You're still the best for my money!

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: ONE OF MY ALL TIME FAVORITES.....
Review: I have always loved the play - my parents took me to see it for the first time when I was 12, back in the early 70's. When I saw it available on cable television in 1986 I immediately taped it. My current copy of this movie is so worn out from being viewed a great deal not only by me, but also by my children. It is a family favorite. The pureness and simplicity of the bible's teachings, as well as the wonderful songs and choreography are such a wonderful combination. I have always been bothered by the conflict of John the Baptist and Judas being played by the same person, but that is the only criticism I can think of. I am so glad it has been re-released on video - now I can purchase a new copy!

Rating: 4 stars
Summary: A much more positive alternative to Jesus Christ Superstar
Review: I've been a fan of Godspell since I first saw it on the stage (about a year before the movie came out, I think). While the professional stage productions were generally better, the movie is still very good.

One warning: you have to approach it with your mind in a very abstract mode. Some have mentioned the fact that John the Baptist and Judas are played by the same actor: in fact, the only actor that I've noticed having any fixed identity is Jesus. The others seem to move in and out of the roles of specific Biblical characters as the scene warrants. And you have to understand that they're not making fun of the Bible - rather, they're showing a side of Jesus that, although it certainly existed, is rarely portrayed: the humor, the happiness, the kind teacher rather than the stern lecturer.

Rating: 4 stars
Summary: Never "Hollow and Unmoving"!!
Review: The only people who would find this movie "hollow and unmoving" are those who have no energy or faith left in these depressed, neuveaux-Victorian days before the Millenium. This movie inspired me in the 70s as no other movie could. It is an energetic, hopeful, and action-oriented gospel which presents John the Baptist, Jesus, and his disciples in a modern context. Mary Magdalene's song compels and another song, "Day by Day," used to be found in poster format in the 70s.

The movie presents happy alternatives to living in a disfunctional world--when caught in a traffic jam, John the Baptist whips out his musical instrument and plays a tune--the roads were mujch different in the 70s as compared to our current "road rage" freeways of the 90s. Another movie example of the disciples choosing alternatives is when they paint an old house in beautiful patterns and colors--this teaches the viewer to look beyond the ugly and make plans to restore beauty in the world.

The only problem I had with the movie was the double-casting of the same actor for the roles of both John the Baptist and Judas. This weakness could be confusing to some viewers. Biblically, it's not cool to depict the forerunner of Christ (John the Baptist) as the later betrayer of Christ (Judas Iscariot) Another minor problem with the film is its depiction of Jesus being crucified on a chain-link fence--there's no substitute for the cross.

Overall, this movie inspired me and reminded me that I could be both a hippie and a Christian successfully in a fragmented world.

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: Every musical-lover needs this one
Review: Arguably the best musical ever shot in New York, with the possible exception of "Hair" (which it resembles on many levels thematically and musically), this retelling of the Jesus story circa 1974 makes the audience stretch--but the payoffs are worth it. Though the narrative may be (fairly) accused of lacking a strong dramatic hook or arc save the obvious, the songs and comedy carry the day up till the haunting finale. Special points to Victor Garber, Robin Lamont, Lynne Thigpen and David Haskell for being standouts; to the breathtaking cinematography (New York rarely looks this ravishing), and to the crisp editing and staging. Makes a great double feature with "Hair" or "Jesus Christ Superstar."

Rating: 5 stars
Summary: Love Victor Garber
Review: Great musical. Great NYC setting. And Victor Garber is marvelous. It's great that this has been re-released after so many years.

Rating: 4 stars
Summary: At last on video!!
Review: Finally, a classic makes it to video. Upbeat. Fun. Something the entire family can watch together. The music lifts the spirit and the message can save the soul. Besides all that, it's just plain fun.


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