"Did you mean to die like that, was that a mistake, or...did you know your messy death would be a record breaker?"
synopsis
The final week of Jesus’ life is retold through a rock opera lens, focusing particularly on Judas’ conflicted perspective as political tension, betrayal, and destiny accelerate toward crucifixion.
pairs well with ...
mini-review
Director Norman Jewison stages the rock score in stark desert landscapes, embracing theatricality while letting the camera roam. The rawness works. It’s imperfect, occasionally uneven, but emotionally immediate and musically bold.
Easter season, headphones on, and an openness to reinterpretation.
Absurdist's Corner
Biblical drama unfolds with electric guitars and 1970s haircuts, yet the fusion feels oddly natural. Also quietly absurd: Roman guards observing crucifixion in sunglasses like unimpressed security detail.
fun facts
Ted Neeley and Carl Anderson became strongly identified with their roles for decades.
The film was shot in Israel.
Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice originally released it as a concept album before Broadway.
Its rock styling was controversial upon release.