This version of Jesus Christ superstar was wonderfully done. It managed to incorporate the use of the camera whilst still retaining it's 'staged production' quality. I wasn't overly impressed with Glen Carter's performance, at some parts in it his performance seemed to be strained and neither was I too struck on the added 'ultra high' and 'ultra low' notes that appeared to have been added (in comparison to the original version) simply to show off his impressive but completely irrelevant and inaccessible vocal range. (e.g. 'Die' in 'Poor Jerusalem' and 'Get out' at 'The Temple' the latter in particular seemed to affect the perceptions of his character in the film- more 'squealing' than 'fury') However saying that some of his scenes were performed admirably. He managed well in his reactions to 'Heaven on their Minds' and the following 'What's the Buzz' and his reactions were well done too for "When I'm Gone" in 'Everything's alright' where he reaches an arm up and sinks backwards at the same time giving the image of one who is, already at this stage,troubled by the knowledge of his impending suffering weighing on his mind.
Jerome Pradon was, without a doubt, the best Judas I have had the good fortune today. He too, had the occasional 'melodramatic' moment but his facial reactions and the passion with which he sung gave his character such depth, even at the times when he was not in a speaking role. (e.g. the reaction 'look' between him and Carter as Simon the Zealot sings, the reaction shots when Jesus is captured and 'questioned' by the mob- his looks at the beginning as Jesus brushes him off)
Without a doubt a brilliant, lively and stage worthy rendition.
