lashtont This only got 2 stars for the performances of Norm, Ben and Sara who I thought could all hold their own. Really this show is all about Judas and his betrayal, I though Judas was poor to stage shiwnrarher than rock, as for Jesus I was horrified all the way through, hasn't got the chops for a role like this, murdered most of the songs, didn't feel any emotion at all. stick to what you're good at as you're fabulous in your record career.

angiebelt John legend was terrible in this movie. Compared to the original cast. The only reason they picked Legend was name recognition. I thought Judas and Mary Magdaline were terrific. There were too many commercials and interruptions during the show Why didn't you pick HBO, STARZ OR PBS?

Michael Fargo 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.

oldguy7547 I bought the original Rock Opera back in the 70's (on vinyl) and played it endlessly. Needless to say when I watch the live broadcast I was expecting some of the voices to be the same or similar but alas they were not. I thought the main characters did not have the range that Ian Gillan, Murray Head, and Yvonne Elliman had they were super. I really like John Legend but sorry it was just not the same. The thing that really bothered me was the constant crowd noise why in the world pay a whole bunch of money only not to be able to hear it over your screaming? That ruined it for me.