(N.B. This is a film only review)

Godspell, (the full, official title is 'Godspell, the gospel according to Matthew') is the film version of the stage musical (originally conceived by John-Michael Tebelak) written by Stephen Schwartz (the guy who wrote 'Wicked') and was released in 1973. The film is set in 70's New York City and basically follows a group of people who tell parables taken from the gospel according to Matthew, some of which are in the form of song. Traditionally, everyone in the show uses their own real life names, as is done in this film, except for two actors, one who plays Jesus, and the actor playing Judas (who also plays John the Baptist). The parallels between the cast, co-incidentally playing the role of Jesus's disciples is clear.

The music is good, it's basically the same as the stage show, but with the omission of 2 songs: "Learn Your Lessons Well" and "We Beseech Thee", which is a shame as they are both good songs. There is an eclectic mix of musical styles as well, varying from gospel (co-incidentally enough 'Godspell' is the archaic old english spelling of the word 'gospel', which translates as 'good news') to pop, from ballad to rock. Other song titles that may be familiar are: 'Turn Back O Man', 'All Good Gifts', 'Light Of The World' and 'Day by Day'.

As well as Victor Garber and David Haskell, other cast members include: Katie Hanley, Merrell Jackson, Joanna Jonas, Robin Lamont, Gilmer McCormick, Jeffrey Mylett, Jerry Sroka and Lynne Thigpen (there's also a vocal appearance from John-Michael Tebelak, who conceived the whole idea). Although I've never heard of anyone in this small cast, it seems to create a greater sense of ensemble playing, than have there be some famous cast members amongst them, which could unbalance the cast somehow.

That aside, I did enjoy 'Godspell' and think it is a good film, then again I may be biased as I have a soft spot for the show. Some performances are relatively weak, but don't let that put you off, as there are also some good moments. Direction by David Greene, is sound, however, I'm sure more could have been done to this film to make even stronger and gain more gravitas. Although having said that, when it was first received, the audience of the 70s may have been more accustomed to such ideas and performances. Unfortunately, it lacks something for today's audience, which is strange, as other musicals filmed within a certain time period ('Cabaret' or 'Grease', for example) are timeless and live on. I would buy this on dvd and would recommend people watch it, however, I would also warn them that it is no 'Fame', 'Dirty Dancing' or 'Footloose', or any other film musical from decades ago, that are still acclaimed today.