Save your money for something good and enjoyable

Excellent but underrated film

It is a whirlwind of delight --- attractive actors, stunning couture, spectacular sets and outrageous parties.

Through painfully honest and emotional moments, the movie becomes irresistibly relatable

For me the most memorable rendering of this material was the National touring company at the original album's release. It was a static chorus where soloist performed (in street clothes) on the apron of the stage with a symphony orchestra and rock band. Simple, pure and emotionally cathartic. The later film and stage versions never took hold for me because they needed to elaborate the material, and I don't think it needs it. Filming a musical/opera in natural settings makes the whole thing ridiculous to me. Bursting into song belongs on a stage with a live audience. When NBC announced a "concert version" I was hopeful there would be a return to the simple presentation I first experienced. And indeed, I think NBC accomplished something that let us experience the "old, old story" in a way that made it fresh, in a context of rebellion that organized religion minimizes, that the 1970's composition intended. While the commercial interruptions were jarring and tedious, it is a commercial enterprise that we can forgive because it gave us so much: a great cast (performing live and unedited), imaginative sets, costumes and choreography, with a powerful finale that often misses in previous versions. And in this case, whoever conceived of the rendering of the crucifixion should be honored for their imagination, restraint and restoring faith in the power of commercial television. Both John Legend's unique vocal style and lack of stage performing expertise worked to set him aside as something "new and compelling" for Jesus. There was a purity and innocence as well as a preordained knowing in his performance. It was subtle-very risky-and paid off. In contrast, Brandon Victor Dixon's considerable performing experience grounded the show, as various misses in vocalizing and dancing reflected the character's hesitation in the role of betrayal he's given. And Sara Bareilles was perfection.I thought the cast of dancers and chorus brought enthusiasm and clarity to their job of hero worship and how that can turn into persecution. They were very well rehearsed, but it appeared heartfelt. And the realization of what had happened as the shadow of the man they've crucified moves across their faces was surprisingly moving. As for the audience in the Brooklyn Armory, I can understand why there are complaints about their intrusion into the action onstage. But I think it added to the point being made. The kind of hysteria we give to 'superstars' can lead to very unpredictable results. In this case it gave the world a savior, but it can also lead to destroying what we hold dear. So I won't fault the noise they added to the production, I think it gave it a kind of energy that we should give serious consideration. For instance, was Alice Cooper deserving of the reception he got? Or was it about something else?I understand that NBC intends "Rent" as their next project. I hope they involve the same production crew in developing it, because the group who imagined this "Jesus Christ Superstar" knew what they were doing and should be given another opportunity.

The production and costuming was fine. There was a lot of energy on stage from the rest of the ensemble and Bareilles acquitted herself honourably. However, Legend and Dixon were somewhat disappointing. While Minchin wrung tears out of me, Dixon's performance seemed downright unemotional. Legend seemed bemused throughout. It is clear they have no musical theatre experience and couldn't act themselves out of a paper bag. Weren't there any legitimate musical theatre performers available that they had to go with actors and pop stars?

I watched it after the live show so was blissfully able to avoid the commercials that were a constant complaint. But I have to gree with many of my other reviewer's that it was not good enough especially after having grown up with the concept album and the 1973 version. John legend is very clearly a talent singer but he does not have the range for this part. It was obvious in some parts that he was struggling to hit the notes. As a singer and a from a performer I actually do understand how difficult it can be to do a live show and keep the energy up and hit all the notes. However a man of his caliber should have recognized his limitations. I enjoyed some of the over-the-top antics because it fits the material. The original help prince Broadway version of the show is the definition of over-the-top and this production is subtle compared to it. I'm coming to customs I'm fine with the staging and I'm fine with most of the singers. Some of them very clearly strong including the one who plays Simon. But there are clearly some sound mixing problems that should have been worked out in dress rehearsals. Overall it is not a horrible introduction of Broadway shows to today's audiences but for those who love the theater it was simply not good enough.

ALICE COOPER my ASS.One got em song. It's a joke to advertise as Starring Alice Cooper.... Wasted my time...... They did that so more people can watch the show using his name. The show itself wasn't that good compare to original movie. Signing voices were poor, maybe couple of them were OK. I did not enjoy the guy playing Jesus he even did not look like one, compare to original movie. For me that would be a big waist of money if I would buy tickets to see this play....