Godspell (DVD, 2000, Closed Captioned; Multiple Languages)

A sweet, sensitive portrayal of the life and death of Jesus Christ, starting from the gathering of the apostles and climaxing during the crucifiction. Its true claim to fame is its setting; a modern bustling metropolis.

Never has the gospel been brought more closely to the common person, as each apostle is a depiction of the "You & Me" that is struggling to get by in the world of today. While all of them are portrayed to some degreee or another as humorous, each still has their own unique personality that we can all readily identify with.

Godspell is a musical, which, of course, means that there is a great deal of music. Each song has a touching, sometimes haunting quality that exposes a real desire among the apostles to cultivate a closer relationship to God. The song "Day By Day", though simplistic in lyrics, is a nonetheless uplifting depiction of how joyous prayer can truely be.

Also on the musical side, the songs each have a uniquely different style; some take on the feel of in-period Pop, while others are more of the Soul genre. Of tongue-in-cheek note is a song played in the 19th century burlesque style. Despite their varied styles and backgrounds, all the music is united in a common purpose; praise of God.

The parables also play a prominant role in the film, and many of the most well known and loved ones taken from the gospel, are acted out in ways that make them seem much more relevant to today's life than most would believe.

No movie, of course, is perfect, and Godspell is no exception. It may have been noted that throughout the review thus far, care has been taken to use non-gender-specific terminology. This is due in large part to the fact that half of the apostles are female. This is by no means a detriment, as it goes further to show the full flower of humanity coming together. However, purists to the gospel may object that the only female that was granted permission to be near Jesus was Mary Magdellan.

Of more relevant objection occurs by simple mathematics; Four female apostles, plus four male apostles equals eight; in fact, there were twelve apostles. The players get around this detriment by taking up multiple roles within the film, and quite expertly. Of particular confusion, but also with a note of admiration, is the portrayal of "John the Baptist" and "Judas Iscariat" by the same actor. One cannot help but feel that perhaps there was simply insufficient talent within the company to fill all roles. However, this, again, is more likely to be an objection for the purists, as the characters seem to be both believable and true to the text of the gospel.

Regarding the setting, which appears to be New York City (unconfirmed by this reviewer), the backdrop is beautiful, breathtaking, and the full playground of all involved. How they were able to manage to have sections of the city completely emptied for their acting is a matter of some interest; but however it was done, the nine actors alone are able to use every facet of every setting as their playground in the exploration of their relationships with God.

Now we come to the portrayal of Jesus. It is no secret that any person who takes up that role has some very large shoes to fill; but Victor Garber did so beautifully. Despite his frail and nondescript appearance, he still manages to come across as a sweet, and endearing father figure.

All in all, a wonderful film, sadly eclipsed by "Jesus Christ Superstar" from the same period.

A must watch.

This is a charming light musical with many memorable songs - Day by Day, Where are you Going, Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord...great melodies sung by sweet, untainted voices. I looked for this for years and was delighted to see it released on DVD. A refreshing change.

I've loved the play Godspell, probably since it was first out on Broadway. It is a gentle and accessible way to enjoy Jesus and his teachings. To me, it has always been quite moving. The movie, while obviously not as interactive an experience, is a wonderful portrayal. I think the story is timeless and some people can to take a lesson or two from it.

The movie is a wonderful way to show our youth of today the Gospel according to Matthew. I cast is small and the props are recycled items. I think youth groups today can learn alot from this movie.

I bought this because my daughter is doing this musical in church. She got a big kick out of seeing Victor Garber when he was young.

I bought this for my 40-something daughter's birthday. It was her favorite movie and record album when she was in high school. Now her children love it, too, and the whole family has enjoyed watching it again. I got excellent service from the seller and would definitely buy from him again.

This is a musical according to the Gospel according to St Matthew. Even if you are not into the Bible, this is a much see. Included the song "Day By Day", from Oscar Award Winner Stephen Schwarts (Original song "Colors of teh Wind" and Original Score, Pocahantas - 1995.

Rousing entertainment in teh tradition of the classics "Tommy" and "Jesus Christ Superstar:.

A MUST see for the family.

Not as famous as Jesus Christ Superstar, Godspell is a 1970's adaptation of the Gospel of Matthew. While the characterizations may seem dated, (looks like hippies), the musical brings the Gospel to life with a delightful joy. Well known songs like "Day by Day" and "Prepare Ye the Way" of the Lord! are interspersed with songs that should be memorable like three different psalms, including Psalm 137 and portions of the Sermon on the Mount.

Well worth buying and watching!

just like i remember it. better than on tv. great condition and no scratches. used to own this on vhs. excellent quailty.

Having heard that this movie compared to Jesus Christ Superstar, I was looking for something that moved me. This movie did far from that. Other than one good song (Day by Day), this movie came very near putting me to sleep or making me want to surf intergallactic warfare, or something equally exciting.
I would not personally recommend this to anyone.

Just as I remembered on TV. Victor Garber at his best!
The characters, screenplay and scenery all meld to make the Gospel come alive and re-awaken the senses to make new disciples of us all.
Garber shines as the 70's representation of the Son of God.

It gave a new approach to the gospels. Great music. I have a DVD of Jesus Christ Superstar and though this would be an interesting addition. It is. I also have the Passion of the Christ. Makes for interesting thoughts.

This dvd is excellent condition! Very clear quality and sound. Excellent seller. The price is very reasonable and the delivery was very fast. I will definitely buy from this seller again.

Thank you,

Florivia Kim Hawkins

There is a spirit to watching Godspell that I have loved ever since first seeing it live as a teenager in the 1970's, which has continued in the movie version. This movie is great for those wishing to learn more about following Christ. The songs are very heart-felt and beautiful and also teach a lesson. Certainly not doctrinally correct, but the basic spirit of the mission of Christ is contained in its images.

This Production is a timely and relevent presentation of the Gospel using music
& comedy. Done in the sparkling , bright colors of the '60's But would have been
passed by the "Spanish Inquesition"....and with the warmth and tenderness that
will appeal to All Children.
I frequently give "GODSPELL" to all my friends, Christians and Jews alike.
During the holidays...I want to make sure to have enough on hand. So I buy early.
Be you 3 or 63, you can watch it over & over and each time experience Laughter and
Tears & Love !

I first saw this as a play at a local college. This movie is a wonderful representation of Jesus trials as portrayed by actors to relate to the world they were living in at the time. It is funny at times, but it hets the message of Jesus across in an emotional mannder.

This is a "lost treasure" that has been released on DVD. It is based on the theatrical play based on the Gospel of St. Matthew - with a modern twist. It's message is enduring and the presentation is refreshing.

I wanted a copy of this movie because I saw it when it first came out, back when I was in high school and it was the BEST feel good movie I'd ever seen. We all came out of the theater high on life!! Finding it in DVD format was wonderful! This seller prices his items fairly, delivers promptly and the DVD was in new condition, sealed. The quality of the film is just like it was on the big screen back in the 70's. Highly recommended.

The movie is very moving it is about the life of Jesus put to the times of the 70's. It has some great songs. I believe everyone will love it.

I saw this movie on TCM the other day for the first time and fell in love with it! It's about Jesus, and that's what made it great. At the end, the disciples carry Jesus to the people, but He didn't get resurrected, and that bothers me, but otherwise, the words of Jesus are proclaimed and that's what we need!

I wouldn't know my 2 year old, stepped on the CD and broke it ,before I had a chance to view it.

Thanks

I would like to write review but I never recieved DVD.

Does any one at Ebay care?
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Thank you for your prompt shipment of Godspell. It came soon after I submitted payment. Can't wait to sit and watch it.

Beautiful flower child rendition of the Gospel. The acting & singing is amazing!!! I was in the stage version by our local theatre group so I have a special place in my heart for this excellent musical. Top quality movie!!