JC Superstar movie review

I couldn't have watched this movie at a better time--right after we analyzed the passion narratives in class, and right before the reference mentioned in chapter 8. 

Though I'd seen the movie before, and even performed some of the music, I realized I could watch this movie a hundred times and catch something new every time. I really struggle to decipher this odd, modern twist on the passion story, and would really like to better understand the artistry and purpose behind the film. I'm interested in hearing your responses to some of my comments and questions:

-The actor playing Jesus has fair skin, light/long hair, and wears a white robe.   He looked rather feminine, with thin shoulders and a whiney rock and roll voice (as mentioned in chapter 8). Even Pilat comments that Jesus looks "so small" compared to the size of his celebrity status. It's also interesting to note that the movie is very diverse: the woman playing Mary Magdalene is mixed, Judas is black, and the chorus is a variety of races. Yet, Jesus still looks like the stereotypical image seen in Sallman's mass produced painting.

-The character Jesus did not seem so kind and loving (with the exception of the "Hosanna" song), but stern, on edge, and serious. I'm thinking association with femininity evokes a certain stereotype of weakness, and Jesus' personality further translates his very human reaction to a horrific fate. Including the psychology behind Jesus and other characters brings an ancient biblical text (often drilled into our heads) creates a relatable, personal connection. Though a Christ figure, Jesus was still human. 

-There were lots of military references. The Roman guards switched back and forth between holding spears, Judas ran from tanks in the desert, etc. Is this a modern interpretation of the crack down and power of the state?

-When Jesus prays to god about his fate, he continually questions why he must come to an end like this. During this scene, diverse images of Christ hanging on the cross over time flash quickly in front of the scene. Suddenly, Christ seems to understand there's a greater plan in store and he must trust god. Or, are the images almost like a vision into the future, and Christ suddenly understands the specific purpose of his death on the cross? I believe at the end he cries out to god, questioning his fate.

-What is up with the hippies on the bus? It was interesting how all the characters in the film arrived together, but at the end, Jesus was the only one who did not get back on the vehicle. Their mood at the beginning of the movie was excited, but the end, sad, regretful, solemn. Were they supposed to be the "actors" in the story? 

-What is up with Herrod's song? The music in the film is incredibly diverse, but Herrod's song is definitely the strangest. Jesus was standing from afar, watching the King dance with half clothed women on his own little island? It was a weird pause in the middle of a very serious event.

-There were many images of birds? Why were the Romans wearing obnoxious hats, and hanging out on partially finished buildings?

-What do you all think of the movie from the point of view of Judas? The tension between him and Jesus lasts the entire movie, evident in their harsh, rock and roll sound in their voices during dialogue. What was the deal with Judas in a white disco suit singing an upbeat song during Christ's time on the cross? Did he somehow make it to heaven? I know the Catholic church believes he did not.

-Overall, very entertaining and intriguing. Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice are musical geniuses. But man, I am confused!