Jesus Christ Superstar Movie Review

Messiah or Not? : Jesus Christ Superstar

Jesus Christ Superstar is a controversial rock opera that revolves around the life of one of the most influential figures in human history, Jesus Christ. Throughout the whole movie, you are left wondering whether Jesus was truly a Messiah, or whether he was just a prophet, who was not the long-expected savior of the Jews, or the Son of God. This unique version of the well-known Biblical tales is told from the point of view of one of Jesus’ followers, Judas Iscariot. Astonishing musical numbers, as well as a very talented cast will sure make watching this movie enjoyable and worthwhile.

Opening with a song by Judas (Carl Anderson), who, very harshly, expresses his anger and unhappiness with Jesus (Ted Neeley), this movie promises to be filled with tension and conflicts. However, despite Judas’ accusations, Jesus keeps spreading his message. He accepts all sinners to be his followers, including a prostitute, Mary Magdalene, who is played by Yvonne Elliman. Filmed on the plains of Jerusalem, Israel, this 70’s classic was based on the original Broadway musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.  

Jesus Christ is known among his followers, as well as among the Jews in Judaea and Galilee, as the performer of miracles. He is also seen as the healer of the sick, and as the Messiah sent from God to save the Jews from the reign of the Romans. His teachings tell people about eternal love, forgiveness, and acceptance. However, not everyone is fond of Jesus Christ, the “Superstar”. Jewish priests fear that he is gaining too much power, and the Romans are fearful of the riots that could emerge among the Jewish population. Despite being on the edge of great success and glory, Jesus is a very humble character, who is kind and generous towards everyone. Judas, on the other hand, is rebellious and is someone who disagrees with the decisions of his friend and teacher. He is greatly frightened by the powerful Roman leaders. Finally, Mary Magdalene is a very calm and loving woman, despite her portrayal in society.

One of the most disturbing, and definitely one of the most prominent parts of this rock opera, is when Jesus is faced with the isolated sufferers of leprosy. The lepers approach Jesus with pleading cries: “Won’t you touch; won’t you heal me, Christ?” At first, Jesus is willing to help them, but as more and more lepers start emerging, Jesus becomes overwhelmed by their individual desires, crying out: “There’s too little of me! Leave me alone!” One of the most intriguing characters was probably Peter, one of Jesus’ most loyal followers. Despite protecting and believing in Jesus, Peter denies knowing him three times, just as Jesus has predicted. This shows that, in Peter’s case, shame and fear was greater than the belief and loyalty to Christ.  

I would recommend this movie to all of those who are not very judgmental and who are open-minded, because this rock opera is quite intriguing.  Small children would probably find it boring, and would not understand the key concepts. I would rate this movie 7/10 stars. The soundtrack is very good, and the singers/actors really portray the emotions of the characters. However, as I said above, some of the ideas expressed in this movie could be considered controversial by religious people. Jesus Christ Superstar is a movie that you will either love or hate; but despite all the critical remarks, it is a timeless 70’s classic that you should definitely see!