Jesus Christ Superstar is a 1973 American musical drama film directed by Norman Jewison and co-written by Jewison and Melvyn Bragg based on the Andrew Lloyd Webber/Tim Rice rock opera of the same name. The film, starring Ted Neeley, Carl Anderson, Yvonne Elliman, and Barry Dennen, centers on the conflict between Judas and Jesus during the week before the crucifixion of Jesus.
Neeley and Anderson were nominated for two Golden Globe Awards in 1974 for their portrayals of Jesus and Judas, respectively. Although it attracted criticism from some religious groups, reviews for the film were still positive.
The film is framed as a group of performers who travel to the desert to re-enact the Passion of Christ. The film begins with them arriving on a bus, assembling their props, and getting into costume. One of the group is surrounded by the others, puts on a white robe, and emerges as Jesus Christ ("Overture").
APOSTLESWhat's the buzz? Tell me what's a-happening.
JESUSWhy should you want to know?
Don't you mind about the future?
Don't you try to think ahead?
Save tomorrow for tomorrow;
Think about today instead.
APOSTLESWhat's the buzz? Tell me what's happening.
JESUSI could give you facts and figures.
I could give you plans and forecasts.
Even tell you where I'm going.
APOSTLESWhen do we ride into Jerusalem?
JESUSWhy should you want to know?
Why are you obsessed with fighting
Times and fates you can't defy?
If you knew the path we're riding,
You'd understand it less than I.
APOSTLESWhat's the buzz? Tell me what's a-happening.
MARY MAGDALENELet me try to cool down your face a bit.
JESUSThat feels nice, so nice...
Mary that is good-
While you prattle through your supper-
Where and when and who and how.
She alone has tried to give me
What I need right here and now.