It was with some resistance that I allowed myself to view the remake of Jesus Christ Superstar. After watching the 1973 release at least 20 times I was convinced that it could not get any better.
Well, I was wrong.
The 2000 version of Jesus Christ Superstar, under the direction on Gale Edwards and Nick Morris, was a pleasant surprise for even an uncompromising viewer like myself.
I was especially moved by the human element that has been carefully crafted into the video production. The viewer is never in doubt about the feelings that the performers are trying to convey. Anger, peace, sadness and betrayal are brought out in the seemingly effortless gestures and movements of the actors. This element is a welcomed asset of the production that was somewhat lacking in the original version.
Although the score was rigidly adhered to, it was refreshing to watch new faces and voices give renewed meaning to familiar words. Jerome Pradon does an excellent job of portraying Judas Iscariot. His performance opens the eyes of viewers and allows them to see into his soul and feel his pain. The talents of Glenn Carter as Jesus and Renee Castle as Mary Magdalene are quickly apparent as the biblical story unfolds.
I enjoyed the millennium edition of Jesus Christ Superstar, and I sheepishly admit that I may prefer it over the earlier version. For fans of the original production, I would recommend seeing the new release. It may inspire you in ways that you have yet to discover.
Well, I was wrong.
The 2000 version of Jesus Christ Superstar, under the direction on Gale Edwards and Nick Morris, was a pleasant surprise for even an uncompromising viewer like myself.
I was especially moved by the human element that has been carefully crafted into the video production. The viewer is never in doubt about the feelings that the performers are trying to convey. Anger, peace, sadness and betrayal are brought out in the seemingly effortless gestures and movements of the actors. This element is a welcomed asset of the production that was somewhat lacking in the original version.
Although the score was rigidly adhered to, it was refreshing to watch new faces and voices give renewed meaning to familiar words. Jerome Pradon does an excellent job of portraying Judas Iscariot. His performance opens the eyes of viewers and allows them to see into his soul and feel his pain. The talents of Glenn Carter as Jesus and Renee Castle as Mary Magdalene are quickly apparent as the biblical story unfolds.
I enjoyed the millennium edition of Jesus Christ Superstar, and I sheepishly admit that I may prefer it over the earlier version. For fans of the original production, I would recommend seeing the new release. It may inspire you in ways that you have yet to discover.