Agree. Even more powerful in the 2011 new broadway version, as “Beautiful City” is added to the themes in the finale. When “Prepare Ye” comes in, it’s incredible!
I've always interpreted the "turning of the corner" as after all the fun and frivolity, now that he is gone, now is the time to take The Word into the real world and spread the message.
I get, that, but kind of would have love to see them turn the corner and see even more people start joining along with them and singing - signifying the beginnings of the Church. I know it wouldn’t have been in keeping with the stage version, but would have been a cool visual to see how this one ‘person’ and His 12 followers (11 at least) changed the world forever.
Famed movie critic Roger Ebert's Thumbs Up review March 21, 1973: "The thing about "Godspell" that caught my heart was its simplicity, its refusal to pretend to be anything more than it is. It's not a message for our times, or a movie to cash in on the Jesus movement, or even quite a youth movie. It's a series of stories and songs, like the Bible is, and it's told with the directness that simple stories need: with no tricks, no intellectual gadgets, and a lot of openness."
I still get misty after they turn the corner and people appear. I tend to forget how we are all children of God and that all life is precious. I downloaded the soundtrack and listen to it to uplift my spirit
Life IS precious....Be Pro Life! Ever wonder why they make a big deal if they would find a single cell organism on another planet and they say they found "Life" but they don't consider a fetus a human being?
Motorcityman Man Do you support increased taxes to pay for WIC, SNAP, housing assistance for improvished families, children being extorted while their parents are being arrested and deported, more equitable education, ...
Granted, the finally always makes me tear up or cry, but (as I said in another reply) I kind of wish they’d turned the corner and had a larger mass singing along. I get what they were trying to do; I just feel like they missed a small moment that could have been very powerful.
Never saw a movie that is as powerful as Godspell. Every mood you can think of comes through. The actors and actresses are so very, very talented. This movies take us on a journey. I hope this movie won some awards back then, it well deserved it. I hope it was well received my mostly everyone back in 1973. The soundtrack is a best seller. I would love to see this brought back to the big screen. Thank you for everyone involved with such a great movie.
Yes, the actors and acrtesses are talented, but it is the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that allows them to transcend in the way they do. Also working with, on and through David Greene - a British Director who just found a beauty in New York that nobody ever found in that way before or after. It's a tremendous achievement indeed, but in part God did it. It's in the name!!!
@@sidpheasant7585yes, God have humans the brains, the system to even function! The way we think, the way we just are. We can find symmetry! We can find beauty in architecture! All this development, God is the origin. He gave us the ability to just be! Flowers don’t have to be pretty. Music doesn’t have to sound good. Why do we enjoy musicals? Our brains are so great, made by a greater God, one that knew us for eternity. The way materials interact with each other to make stronger structures, why? Sciences that show Gods nature, the amazing cells we have, our sense of direction! It’s just amazing. Our God is amazing and he dwells with us. God has created, God has come down to creation, and God dwells in creation in us through the Holy Spirit! Rejoice!
This is I guess the most perfectly-made, perfectly-filmed, perfectly-approached piece of moviemaking I have ever seen. Each time I watch I get more than the time before. The ingredients don't promise much - 1970s, New York, cncrete, glass, some slightly silly-looking people in exaggerated clown costumes. But the Holy Spirit was with them, with David Greene - even with the mockingbird that sings at the beginning of the scene, conveying ("by chance" - but we don't believe in them, do we?) 4 meanings at the same time. Greene was a Brit, so he would not even have recognised the fact it WAS a mockingbird (we don't have them). But the Holy Spirit understands EVERYTHING that has love and truth in it - because that is the essence of what He is. Everything He touches has explorable, decipherable, loving, inspiring, transcending meaning.
*** When I was an elementary student in 1978, we saw a professional production of this at a high school. Impressed me very much with the acting and songs. For this final scene though, what they did was carry him out of the auditorium like this final scene, then after they exited, they all came running back in and up on to the platform again. While there, they still sang this song in a circle, then with arms raised all bowed down and the Christ was standing in the middle of the circle smiling! Was a wild scene and everyone was on their feet applauding!!
See, I think that’s a much more powerful ending. My ONE issue with this production (which brought me to tears, and still does) was that the Resurrection was just kind of implied. They take Him down and change to singing “Long Live God,” but when I first saw it, I kept waiting for them to show some kind of ultimate reunion/triumph scene where it’s just overwhelming joy. Of course, thankfully I know the story, but just wanted that final end to leave a huge smile on my face.
@@paulleduc93 Probably. I was just talking about the production our school took us to see. The sudden reappearance brought the house down and made the ending unforgettable!
@Robin Don't blame Jesus. He did his job and held up his end of the bargain. It's our fault for refusing to listen and spitting what he did do right back in his face. It is US ... who didn't do a very good job and it is US ... who are to blame ... not Jesus.
I don't remember 'Godspell' from '73. But the song 'Day by Day' came up on my TH-cam and I have (re)discovered this classic from 50 years ago! Vietnam was still raging. The country had been torn apart. Yet this film - in its profound free spirit kind of way - is still powerful in its ability to evoke deep emotion!
Not JUST emotion .., also true divinity in humanity. This is the Holy Spirit at work - He does this kind of thing ... a million times every day. When we look, we find...
I don't quite know what makes the ending with the "return to normality" and regular people suddenly appearing back on the NYC streets so chilling (in a good way), but it's extremely powerful. I wish it wouldn't have cut off at the end. This movie is SO underrated!
Don’t get me wrong, I know that them untying Him and singing “Long live God” was representative of the Resurrection, but just felt it could have been a little more…. explicit?
@@j.p.6932 thought it was good, but could be interpreted a bit differently.. the most grim one would be the disciples literally stole the body while professing a lie. (VERYYYYYYYYYYY unlikely)
Yes! Imagine how the world just continued after Jesus' death as if nothing had happened (except for those who believed in Him) then three days later the whole world changed for the better!
@@katchmeifyoucan1131imagine the disciples feelings. Imagine hearing the news far away from Jerusalem. That miracle working teacher, the one that claimed to be God. Dead. I would be in shock as a disciple. Well what now? Where do we go? Back to our Normal lives? I guess we will go back after this night… wait, why is Mary and those women running towards us?
I am always in awe of the brilliance of the writer and composer of the music Stephen Schwartz. Whether it's Godspell, Pippin, Wicked........he so completely captures the essence and heart of the shows. Godspell is my favorite, and I've sung all the songs during my life, and it still gives me peace and joy and gratitude......for the message and wonders of the music.
Just looked at this first time in a long time! Sooo awesome to feel the spirit, love the ending going around the corner and the people show up again as the believers take the message to the world! Jesus loves you! He is risen!
@@sralyn From my perspective, Robin is more likely to be the equivalent of either Peter or John since she of perhaps all of them appears to have the closest and strongest relationship with Jesus. After all, all the other cast members are supposed to represent the original twelve disciplines -- but at least in the accepted and traditional Christian doctrine, while the New Testament does mention Mary Magdelene by name as a devotee of Jesus, she was not included among the disciples.
@@OreadNYC not since the very early powerful in the Church decided to eliminate her Gospel and any writings that indicated how close she was with Jesus. Couldn't let women think they were any more than chattel meant to bear children and obey men. That just would not DO in 300 AD!(or CE)
I took the turning of the corner in a whole different way. It took me a couple of minutes to process and then I cried uncontrollably for 5 minutes. They went from such a beautiful world and turned the corner into Any City USA that is filled with crime, hatred and disease. I’m an atheist but even I can see that if everyone just got along life would be so much better. JMO.
But where is Jesus (and the Holy Spirit) needed - if not where there is crime, hatred and disease? His clowns would lead Him there without fear, with joy, accepting whatever came. And, BTW, if you cry at this you are NOT an atheist... But don't worry, it is GREAT not to be one - take it from me!!! Love and blessings to you, my dear fellow human being, potridge!
@@sidpheasant7585 it's true. One doesn't have to believe in any religions version of God, Yahweh, Allah to feel deep in your soul that there is some.....Ultimate, supreme source that Is where we all yearn to go whether we know it consciously or not.
I think it's very poetic how at the moment Jesus is out of scene, the city comes back to life, 'cause that's what his sacrifice did for us. It saved the world. That's why they go from sad to happy and celebrating, because Jesus death was the peak of the world's heavenly glory
The almost instantaneous transporting at 01:30 of Jesus from Randall's Island being carried under the support columns of the Hells Gate rail bridge that crosses the east river to then appear in Central park at 01:37 in Manhattan while corresponding to the transition of songs from "Prepare Ye" to 'Day by Day" was truly a miracle
Not only that the turning of the corner is a metaphor for taking the word into reality, something that astounds me is the use of the everyday people going and coming back in the film. The people of new york are almost like a curtain. They are there in the beginning but are gone by the time the main players are at the fountain, as if the curtain goes up to reveal the stage, setting and characters. At the end when the characters turn the corner, its like they are exiting the stage and the people of the city reemerge in full hustle and bustle again, as if the curtain goes down. Ive never seen people represented that way in any production.
And the fun part is that they knew what to do (unlike the original Disciples in their disarray). The originals are often said to have been a bit like the Keystone Cops (even by clergy). These clowns get their act together. In part that is because 1970s New York (EVEN 1970s NY) is a better and more-receptive place for the word than was Israel AD33. That's the great hope in the play and in the movie.
I am still a pilgrim looking for my way. In the last four years I have dealt with major health issues. First emergency spinal surgery. Then fighting to remission Stage 4A Ductal Prostate Cancer that they warned me will probably come back. Thought I was done. However, things are never that easy. They just found an egg sized brain tumor that will have to come out (to big for radiation). The songs from Godspell give me hope. Perhaps I will stop wondering and find my savor before the end.🙏❤️
God Bless You and Dont give up! My bro in law was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer 9 years ago........he's still here. It has about a 4% survival rate after 2 years.
God loves you. He paid your way into heaven and He invites you. Ask Him into your heart. Choose faith. God invented freedom of choice. He does not force Himself on people. Love forced is not love at all. God knows that, because He is love. It's a personal relationship. He's not trying to make you religious per se. He's not trying to torture you or kill you to get you into heaven. Sickness is just because of toxins, stresses, etc. and the fall. Jesus died for you and is now at the right hand of the Father, praying for you.
God the Creator gave us everything we need to be healthy. A lady had stage IV cancer with nodules all over. She began juicing every day and after a year, the nodules were gone. Prayer and fasting help too. God Bless.
Where is the absolute end? The music continues, the graphics...It makes you still think & feel about what youve just seen....Its part of it all, it mustn't be removed.
Thank you so much for sharing this! I remember seeing this movie when I was on a retreat in the 8th grade. It affected me so much back then and still does today. May God bless you.
Actually, I know of no more concise, meaningful, beautiful encapsulation in art of the (true and full essence of the) Death and Resurrection than this. Well done David Greene! How wonderfully is this filmed? How quickly do they move from loss to once again singing "Prepare Ye" and "Day by Day"? SO MUCH MEANING. What we benefit from here (with hindsight and knowledge) is the absence of confusion, bafflement, dithering, division and fear among The Disciples. They grasp the significance, and herald the revolutionary change, almost at once ... as they deliver the Saviour/new Paraclete to all the people. I love it, and deeply moved by it, and deeply humbled. The Holy Spirit again blurs the boundaries between life and art as He does His thing.
In regard to the resurrection, after the disciples turn the corner, NYC comes back to life. If one views NYC itself as Jesus, the entire movie is NYC suspended between life and death, anthropomorphized into Victor Garber's Jesus, who fights a cosmic battle and teaches the disciples what he can, and then NYC is resurrected at the end. Also, note that the NYC streets at the beginning of the movie are stagnant: people and cars stuck in an intersection. NYC life is blocked, not flowing, and people arguing. In the final scene, the disciples disappear around the corner, the pedestrians are walking, smiling, waving, talking with each other, families walking together. Then in the credits (cut off in this clip), NYC is moving and living. The disciples go forth into the world and the world has changed.
The fact that this and Jesus Christ Superstar were both release in 1973 has always amaze me. Two very different takes on Jesus yet in many ways both equally moving. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Our local High School Appo is performing Godspell and it has stood the test of time. They adapted some parts to relate to todays issues but the messages will always remain constant. It was a pleasure to see such great talent perform this classic.
The transition between empty streets to filled with people and traffic is such a cool shot. I'd love to know how it was done. Other than holding people back abd telling them to go after they turn the corner...I don't know
I heard they had actor call at 4am. They blocked off roads chunks at a time. Also. You notice no cars or even airplanes can be seen. This was before cgi. Awesome work
Good thing they did it while they could ... nowadays ... EVERYTHING related to Jesus is verboten ... and they would not even get a budget let alone a permit to make sure a film. VERY sad times we live in.
@@robertdesantis7536 That was my thought. At the height of summer here in NYC, the sun is already up by 5:30...and on a weekend, the streets at that hour of the morning would probably be fairly empty already and easy to block off.
And, although they are "only" clowns, these Disciples in New York in 1973 differ from those of 33AD in NOT being in disarray, NOT diminished by fear and confusion. They get right back up and out there, KNOWing what to do and what to sing and where to go. Was there ever a more optimistic portrayal of how things might be better? Better the second time around? Thanks be to British Director David Greene ... with quite a bit of help from the beloved, ever-active and ever-innovative Holy Spirit Amazingly, people (esp. critics) see this ending as a sad and empty and dispiriting one, even claiming there is no Resurrection in it. !!! Blindndess remains, apparently! But hope there is. In me too, TBTG. So it does indeed "make much sense", my dear friend...
It’s rare that a film version of a stage musical is better than the stage version, but I believe “Godspell” is one example. It is a very good film, and it was no small feat to pull off. I loved the idea of stooping time, as it were, and giving these kids the space and time and freedom from judging eyes to explore their hearts and minds and learn the teachings of Jesus. The turning-the-corner finale is cathartic: He has died for our sins, now we must turn our sadness (“Long Live God”) into celebration and into a mission to spread the Word (“Prepare Ye/Day by Day”). When the celebrants disappear around the corner, we feel emptiness, and we are curious as to where they went and want to rejoin them. Then when we entertain our curiosity and round the corner to catch up with them, they have returned to their lives, their busy lives, but imbued with the Spirit to share the Word of the Lord. Truly inspirational. This was no slap -dash production.
This scene works in every way. The way the music builds. The way characters go on to spread the news, and then fading into everyday people going about their business Footnote. I wish the uploader had included the end of the song, Probably could not because of legalities. Watch the film again. Paul Schaffer (of David Letterman fame) lays down a scorching keyboard solo! Man that guy can play! The musicians that drive this soundtrack, and the arrangements, were amazing!
I see their turning the corner and disappearing into masses of people as how the gospel has been integrated into the world. this message, in the form of these people, dispersed like a drop water in the ocean, at once disappearing but also everywhere.
You got it, my friend! The New Testament uses far more words to tell this (actually quite chaotic and not fully successful) story. But that means ... THE TIME IS NOW. We can do this, including with TH-cam to help us! The above clip is masterly, and there are many, many more like it. This is how the Holy Spirit wants (us) to reach people in 2023. I was blind before, but now I see it... and do it.
So powerful to watch the mourning band of misfits carry the dead body of Jesus and sing: "Pre-e-e-pare ye the way of the Lord!" It was his dead body that made null and void the old law that could condemn us; By his death, he destroyed him who has the power of death. By his death he condemned, -not us, but sin living in us, that his perfect law of love might be fully met in us. Look out world! Move aside. "Prepare ye the way of the Lord!"
I wish I'd had a chance to see this live. I can only imagine the Ovations the audience gave these actors! I'm betting everyone on stage and in the audience was in tears.
Saw it twice years and years ago. But I would suggest the movie (by Brit David Greene) is the greater work. of course it is mostly down to the Holy Spirit anyway. When we see "John" holding hands with the statue at the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park... and above we have the scene at the Hell Gate Bridge. Yes, really, this movie makes the most of all possible symbolisms of an outdoor nature, while the above begins with a mockingbird singing ... David Greene would not even have known that as we don't have these birds in Britain). That's a quaruple meaning right there: - what has happened to Jesus involved mockery and is a mockery - yet "To Kill a Mockingbird" is vastly powerful US culture, suggesting that we kill something innocent that only wants to sing to us and make our life beautiful, with no harm whatever in him... - yet the Latin name of the mockingbird means the one who mimics and does so in every possible language - a nice nod to the Disciples sent out with the power of the Holy Spirit.
A stunning and poignant ending. I can clearly remember being moved to tears the first time I saw it over 40 years ago. I only wish PatchesAndFacePaint could have let it run longer after the human race reappeared in the streets of New York City. Maybe it was cut short in this posting due to the fact that the closing credits started running? As I recall, the busy street scene ran the entire length of the closing credits. Thanks for posting. I'm inspired to watch the movie again! Happy Easter!!! 😁😁😁 🥚🥚🥚
Acabo de descubrir que esta película esta basada en un judaísmo mesiánico, sin demeritar nada, la escena de consagración esta en arameo, y en la cruz el hombre muere, no hay una resurrección, pasa a segundo plano y eso realmente no importa, sino la trascendencia de su enseñanza y la transformacion que manifiesta en nuestras vidas... La vi de niña pero hasta hoy que la vuelvo a encontrar despues de tantos años ❤ Gracias por esta obra del cine y maravillosa para el alma
Fantastic ending, wish it wasn't cut tho, some great 'back to normal' shots afterwards.....if you look closely at 2:30 on the right, there's actually a stray person across the street. No big deal just a fun little aside.
The thing I like about this song is that, although the theology is off, the thought is wishing the best for God Himself. There’s no mention of our good, what we got out of Him or how great we are like so many modern “worship” songs.
A very profound comment, thanks. The original Disciples were in dismay and disarray when Jesus died, and did not really know what to do for some while. They were also afraid, as they had good reason to be! These "clowns" here are devastated, but also determined and completely fearless. They know what they must do, and they do it with purpose. Rather quickly "Long Live God" (of course not long dead God - just for the critics who claim this movie ignores the Resurrection) gives way to "Prepare ye the way of the Lord". NOT prepare the way for the dead Lord, but for the Lord... That moves on to joy, as we see so well, and - though New York is a tough place - they are NOT afraid to risk taking the Word, and the word, into that crowd. The film therefore tells us that there is more hope in 1973 New York than in Ancient Israel. The Paraclete was sent specifically in that kind of conviction... And that was true for the characters within the confines of the film, but also beyond the movie in the real world. Many people were Born Again through "Godspell". That is the Holy Spirit's doing. We finish with the way we achieve the change we need: "Day By Day" brought back up to us from the 13th century and St Richard of Chichester (England). Seeing Him more clearly, Loving Him more dearly, Following Him more nearly. Something of tremendous power and meaning as they and their Master (Resurrected) disappear and disperse into the New York crowd. Of course David Greene showed genius here, but the Holy Spirit was the Co-Director (even very meaningfully including the song of the mockingbird at the beginning of the clip we see above - Greene as a Brit would most likely not have even recognised the song. The presence of a mockingbird offers those who see at least three Signs in one go!!!)
I've seen both Godspell and J.C. Superstar many times over the years. But I didn't see Hair until 2008 during a performance to celebrate it's 40th Anniversary. After seeing it, now I have a better understanding of the trilogy of the three shows.
Long live God ...Prepare ye the way of the lord ... Day by day ... and is that Jesus being carried right past the Tree of Eternal Life (which Jesus was from the get-go) ... for he is risen body and soul reigning right now even as there is one more corner up the road to turn ... and that will be the real finale. And all those people ... if they abide in him then Jesus and the Father dwell within them. Is that not what Jesus taught? How much more quantum physics (superposition -entanglement-tunneling) does faith get??? Totally awesome in my view and wildly beyond mundane comprehension. Amen.
In case anyone wants to know where the junkyard was located in Godspell, here are the map coordinates: 40°47'8.12"N 73°55'32.58"W. Just enter it in Google Earth, or just Google it instead.
@@johnhancock2914 Well, not surprising, really, is it? Father, Son and Holy Spirit complement each other, are one, are God, and are also love and truth in the universe. The idea for them to be portrayed as clowns was bizarre-ish (and some are even dubious about it, after all clowns are all about pastiche). But the Holy Spirit got involved, as He does in such cases where art is seeking to supply faith, and the result is a masterpiece. The play, surely, but (British Director) David Greene's film is STUNNING. He's an outsider to New York, so he sees the beauty and the starkness even better than a native would. It's shown perfectly in the above scene.
Something tells me this is what Lynne Thigpen heard when she entered heaven.
From "Long live God," to "Prepare Ye" woven in, then beautifully to "Day by Day." Brilliant and so seamless.
So right! 👏
Agree. Even more powerful in the 2011 new broadway version, as “Beautiful City” is added to the themes in the finale. When “Prepare Ye” comes in, it’s incredible!
I've always interpreted the "turning of the corner" as after all the fun and frivolity, now that he is gone, now is the time to take The Word into the real world and spread the message.
Jesus Christ is the Word.
I get, that, but kind of would have love to see them turn the corner and see even more people start joining along with them and singing - signifying the beginnings of the Church. I know it wouldn’t have been in keeping with the stage version, but would have been a cool visual to see how this one ‘person’ and His 12 followers (11 at least) changed the world forever.
l always knew this truth.Thank tou very much God bless you.
I know.
Amen ... God's love fills the whole Earth
Noone talks about this but the emotion transition in the music is incredible. Goes from sad, to it's going to be ok, to beautiful, to celebration
Now we talk about it, or I do anyway.
It's so beautifully done by David Greene (with help from the Holy Spirit).
What cannot be said can be sung.
Famed movie critic Roger Ebert's Thumbs Up review March 21, 1973: "The thing about "Godspell" that caught my heart was its simplicity, its refusal to pretend to be anything more than it is. It's not a message for our times, or a movie to cash in on the Jesus movement, or even quite a youth movie. It's a series of stories and songs, like the Bible is, and it's told with the directness that simple stories need: with no tricks, no intellectual gadgets, and a lot of openness."
He nailed it.
Wow! So true! Sort of an innocence about it. ❤
Sadly, many great talents in this production and some lived far too short of a life.
I still get misty after they turn the corner and people appear. I tend to forget how we are all children of God and that all life is precious. I downloaded the soundtrack and listen to it to uplift my spirit
Too bad the vid cuts off
Life IS precious....Be Pro Life!
Ever wonder why they make a big deal if they would find a single cell organism on another planet and they say they found "Life" but they don't consider a fetus a human being?
See it as Christ is amongst us.
Motorcityman Man Do you support increased taxes to pay for WIC, SNAP, housing assistance for improvished families, children being extorted while their parents are being arrested and deported, more equitable education, ...
@@CJ-im2uu
There are thousands of loving couples who can't have children waiting to adopt children, no need for the bullshit you posted.
This scene makes me teary without fail...every single time.
Same here, no matter how many times l see it.
Granted, the finally always makes me tear up or cry, but (as I said in another reply) I kind of wish they’d turned the corner and had a larger mass singing along. I get what they were trying to do; I just feel like they missed a small moment that could have been very powerful.
Me too
Eu também. Desde a primeira vez que o assisti, garotinha, na principal TV aberta do meu país...
Never saw a movie that is as powerful as Godspell. Every mood you can think of comes through. The actors and actresses are so very, very talented. This movies take us on a journey. I hope this movie won some awards back then, it well deserved it. I hope it was well received my mostly everyone back in 1973. The soundtrack is a best seller. I would love to see this brought back to the big screen. Thank you for everyone involved with such a great movie.
Yes, the actors and acrtesses are talented, but it is the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that allows them to transcend in the way they do.
Also working with, on and through David Greene - a British Director who just found a beauty in New York that nobody ever found in that way before or after.
It's a tremendous achievement indeed, but in part God did it.
It's in the name!!!
@@sidpheasant7585yes, God have humans the brains, the system to even function! The way we think, the way we just are. We can find symmetry! We can find beauty in architecture! All this development, God is the origin. He gave us the ability to just be! Flowers don’t have to be pretty. Music doesn’t have to sound good. Why do we enjoy musicals? Our brains are so great, made by a greater God, one that knew us for eternity. The way materials interact with each other to make stronger structures, why? Sciences that show Gods nature, the amazing cells we have, our sense of direction! It’s just amazing. Our God is amazing and he dwells with us. God has created, God has come down to creation, and God dwells in creation in us through the Holy Spirit! Rejoice!
This finale still gets to me! Such wonderful memories!
This is I guess the most perfectly-made, perfectly-filmed, perfectly-approached piece of moviemaking I have ever seen.
Each time I watch I get more than the time before.
The ingredients don't promise much - 1970s, New York, cncrete, glass, some slightly silly-looking people in exaggerated clown costumes.
But the Holy Spirit was with them, with David Greene - even with the mockingbird that sings at the beginning of the scene, conveying ("by chance" - but we don't believe in them, do we?) 4 meanings at the same time.
Greene was a Brit, so he would not even have recognised the fact it WAS a mockingbird (we don't have them).
But the Holy Spirit understands EVERYTHING that has love and truth in it - because that is the essence of what He is.
Everything He touches has explorable, decipherable, loving, inspiring, transcending meaning.
*** When I was an elementary student in 1978, we saw a professional production of this at a high school. Impressed me very much with the acting and songs. For this final scene though, what they did was carry him out of the auditorium like this final scene, then after they exited, they all came running back in and up on to the platform again. While there, they still sang this song in a circle, then with arms raised all bowed down and the Christ was standing in the middle of the circle smiling! Was a wild scene and everyone was on their feet applauding!!
See, I think that’s a much more powerful ending.
My ONE issue with this production (which brought me to tears, and still does) was that the Resurrection was just kind of implied. They take Him down and change to singing “Long Live God,” but when I first saw it, I kept waiting for them to show some kind of ultimate reunion/triumph scene where it’s just overwhelming joy. Of course, thankfully I know the story, but just wanted that final end to leave a huge smile on my face.
I saw the musical in 1975 when I was 12. I seem to remember it ending the exact same way. It was very joyous and inspiring.
@@paulleduc93
Probably. I was just talking about the production our school took us to see. The sudden reappearance brought the house down and made the ending unforgettable!
Maybe the play you saw might have been the one I was in. What state and town did you see the show?
@@suanneharrow2108 It was up here in Canada, so probably not yours lol. But it was a touring production.
Yes as they turn the corner and its just normal people because this is the story of how one man saved the human race fom self destruction
Brilliant ending! ✌
@Robin Don't blame Jesus. He did his job and held up his end of the bargain. It's our fault for refusing to listen and spitting what he did do right back in his face. It is US ... who didn't do a very good job and it is US ... who are to blame ... not Jesus.
@@angelicwolf909 jesus who?
@@kurtjarvis2447 Jesus Jones. Who else?
👽
Yes, but l'd better use the word species, the human species, as races don't really scientifically exist
I love how the songs are intertwined.
I don't remember 'Godspell' from '73. But the song 'Day by Day' came up on my TH-cam and I have (re)discovered this classic from 50 years ago! Vietnam was still raging. The country had been torn apart. Yet this film - in its profound free spirit kind of way - is still powerful in its ability to evoke deep emotion!
Not JUST emotion .., also true divinity in humanity.
This is the Holy Spirit at work - He does this kind of thing ... a million times every day.
When we look, we find...
Would love to see this on the big screen again ! The world needs a revival !!
I don't quite know what makes the ending with the "return to normality" and regular people suddenly appearing back on the NYC streets so chilling (in a good way), but it's extremely powerful. I wish it wouldn't have cut off at the end. This movie is SO underrated!
Even though he dies he lives so then we live we live on
To him that makes things as though they are as though they are not
Oh death where is thy sting
He was amongst us he was with us in the very same Emmanuel God is with us
They're in the Master's presence there's no sin there is light as a feather
The celebration as they carry Jesus is the Joy that Jesus was here and the impact he made.😊😊
Am forever grateful for the simplicity of the gospel of Matthew
This has and will always stand the test of time. A great rock opera that honors Christ. The ending is so apprapo.
Don’t get me wrong, I know that them untying Him and singing “Long live God” was representative of the Resurrection, but just felt it could have been a little more…. explicit?
@@j.p.6932 thought it was good, but could be interpreted a bit differently.. the most grim one would be the disciples literally stole the body while professing a lie. (VERYYYYYYYYYYY unlikely)
@@PoppinPsinceAD33
I don’t think that’s what they were trying to imply, but that is what the Romans thought happened and searched for His body
@@j.p.6932 It would've been, yes. But the entire play and film is a metaphor.
I love how the real world resumes when they dance around the corner. Two worlds ,
+Tessa Hall Perhaps there was a resurrection. Who's that guy WAY in the background across the street @ 2:31? 🤔
I think when the song goes from sad to happy and NYC comes back to life, that is meant to symbolize the Resurrection
But notice the contrast with the opening scene, where everyone in New York is stressed and hostile. Now, they're getting along.
@@tessahall5958 I think it was implied in the song lyrics "Long Live God".
Something about them going around that corner and people walking casually gives me chills...wanted the ending to go on and onnnnnnn. THANKS UPLOADER
Yes! Imagine how the world just continued after Jesus' death as if nothing had happened (except for those who believed in Him) then three days later the whole world changed for the better!
Ended TOO soon
It IS going on and on, even as we speak
@@katchmeifyoucan1131imagine the disciples feelings. Imagine hearing the news far away from Jerusalem. That miracle working teacher, the one that claimed to be God. Dead. I would be in shock as a disciple. Well what now? Where do we go? Back to our Normal lives? I guess we will go back after this night… wait, why is Mary and those women running towards us?
@@geeks4greyson425this is the age of Grace. Every day is a day of Grace on the world, until he comes back.
I am always in awe of the brilliance of the writer and composer of the music Stephen Schwartz. Whether it's Godspell, Pippin, Wicked........he so completely captures the essence and heart of the shows. Godspell is my favorite, and I've sung all the songs during my life, and it still gives me peace and joy and gratitude......for the message and wonders of the music.
Just looked at this first time in a long time! Sooo awesome to feel the spirit, love the ending going around the corner and the people show up again as the believers take the message to the world! Jesus loves you! He is risen!
Robin running into Lynn and Katie's arms in tears makes the scene all the more emotional.😥
Robin must've been the Mary Magdelene equivalent
Allison Corona 😭
@@sralyn From my perspective, Robin is more likely to be the equivalent of either Peter or John since she of perhaps all of them appears to have the closest and strongest relationship with Jesus. After all, all the other cast members are supposed to represent the original twelve disciplines -- but at least in the accepted and traditional Christian doctrine, while the New Testament does mention Mary Magdelene by name as a devotee of Jesus, she was not included among the disciples.
Eu penso nela mais como Pedro. Ou João. Os que eram mais íntimos.
@@OreadNYC not since the very early powerful in the Church decided to eliminate her Gospel and any writings that indicated how close she was with Jesus. Couldn't let women think they were any more than chattel meant to bear children and obey men. That just would not DO in 300 AD!(or CE)
“Long love god...” mournful and then joyful. makes me weep.
I took the turning of the corner in a whole different way. It took me a couple of minutes to process and then I cried uncontrollably for 5 minutes. They went from such a beautiful world and turned the corner into Any City USA that is filled with crime, hatred and disease. I’m an atheist but even I can see that if everyone just got along life would be so much better. JMO.
But where is Jesus (and the Holy Spirit) needed - if not where there is crime, hatred and disease?
His clowns would lead Him there without fear, with joy, accepting whatever came.
And, BTW, if you cry at this you are NOT an atheist...
But don't worry, it is GREAT not to be one - take it from me!!!
Love and blessings to you, my dear fellow human being, potridge!
@@sidpheasant7585 it's true. One doesn't have to believe in any religions version of God, Yahweh, Allah to feel deep in your soul that there is some.....Ultimate, supreme source that Is where we all yearn to go whether we know it consciously or not.
I think it's very poetic how at the moment Jesus is out of scene, the city comes back to life, 'cause that's what his sacrifice did for us. It saved the world. That's why they go from sad to happy and celebrating, because Jesus death was the peak of the world's heavenly glory
Gets me everytime. Thank you.
The almost instantaneous transporting at 01:30 of Jesus from Randall's Island being carried under the support columns of the Hells Gate rail bridge that crosses the east river to then appear in Central park at 01:37 in Manhattan while corresponding to the transition of songs from "Prepare Ye" to 'Day by Day" was truly a miracle
Not only that the turning of the corner is a metaphor for taking the word into reality, something that astounds me is the use of the everyday people going and coming back in the film. The people of new york are almost like a curtain. They are there in the beginning but are gone by the time the main players are at the fountain, as if the curtain goes up to reveal the stage, setting and characters.
At the end when the characters turn the corner, its like they are exiting the stage and the people of the city reemerge in full hustle and bustle again, as if the curtain goes down. Ive never seen people represented that way in any production.
I got chills seeing this again after so many years. It so perfectly captures how the disciples sorrow turned to joy.
And the fun part is that they knew what to do (unlike the original Disciples in their disarray).
The originals are often said to have been a bit like the Keystone Cops (even by clergy).
These clowns get their act together.
In part that is because 1970s New York (EVEN 1970s NY) is a better and more-receptive place for the word than was Israel AD33.
That's the great hope in the play and in the movie.
I am still a pilgrim looking for my way. In the last four years I have dealt with major health issues. First emergency spinal surgery. Then fighting to remission Stage 4A Ductal Prostate Cancer that they warned me will probably come back. Thought I was done. However, things are never that easy. They just found an egg sized brain tumor that will have to come out (to big for radiation). The songs from Godspell give me hope. Perhaps I will stop wondering and find my savor before the end.🙏❤️
Blessings and light to you. ❤️
God Bless You and Dont give up!
My bro in law was diagnosed with Stage 4 Pancreatic Cancer 9 years ago........he's still here.
It has about a 4% survival rate after 2 years.
God loves you. He paid your way into heaven and He invites you. Ask Him into your heart. Choose faith. God invented freedom of choice. He does not force Himself on people. Love forced is not love at all. God knows that, because He is love. It's a personal relationship. He's not trying to make you religious per se. He's not trying to torture you or kill you to get you into heaven. Sickness is just because of toxins, stresses, etc. and the fall. Jesus died for you and is now at the right hand of the Father, praying for you.
I pray His peace will live in you.
God the Creator gave us everything we need to be healthy. A lady had stage IV cancer with nodules all over. She began juicing every day and after a year, the nodules were gone. Prayer and fasting help too. God Bless.
Where is the absolute end? The music continues, the graphics...It makes you still think & feel about what youve just seen....Its part of it all, it mustn't be removed.
These songs make me happy. They remind me of being in school in the 1980's and hearing people singing it
The camera work and cinematography in this movie are amazing!
this is way better than jesus christ superstar.
so many bangers.
The camera work is incredible. Great angles and abstract views . I LOVE this movie . Love the music
Thank you so much for sharing this! I remember seeing this movie when I was on a retreat in the 8th grade. It affected me so much back then and still does today. May God bless you.
Actually, I know of no more concise, meaningful, beautiful encapsulation in art of the (true and full essence of the) Death and Resurrection than this.
Well done David Greene!
How wonderfully is this filmed?
How quickly do they move from loss to once again singing "Prepare Ye" and "Day by Day"?
SO MUCH MEANING.
What we benefit from here (with hindsight and knowledge) is the absence of confusion, bafflement, dithering, division and fear among The Disciples.
They grasp the significance, and herald the revolutionary change, almost at once ... as they deliver the Saviour/new Paraclete to all the people.
I love it, and deeply moved by it, and deeply humbled.
The Holy Spirit again blurs the boundaries between life and art as He does His thing.
thst stray person across the street they missed getting out of the way at 2:30 always makes me smile. you cant stop ny lol.
yes indeed, long live God!
In regard to the resurrection, after the disciples turn the corner, NYC comes back to life. If one views NYC itself as Jesus, the entire movie is NYC suspended between life and death, anthropomorphized into Victor Garber's Jesus, who fights a cosmic battle and teaches the disciples what he can, and then NYC is resurrected at the end.
Also, note that the NYC streets at the beginning of the movie are stagnant: people and cars stuck in an intersection. NYC life is blocked, not flowing, and people arguing. In the final scene, the disciples disappear around the corner, the pedestrians are walking, smiling, waving, talking with each other, families walking together. Then in the credits (cut off in this clip), NYC is moving and living. The disciples go forth into the world and the world has changed.
That sounds like a Gnostic interpretation of the Gospel
th-cam.com/video/zS6Rq4eSxr8/w-d-xo.html
RIP Lynne Thigpen
The reprise of Prepare Ye/Day By Day is the musical high point for sure
Because these Disciples REALLY get it.
And my tears won't stop...
A classic!!! Thanks for posting and God bless everyone involved who made this awesome movie!!!!
Wonderful movie! Christ, Not Man, is King!
Amo esse filme esse musical eternoooo
Every single time
Me too, my friend!
Remarkable cast!
The fact that this and Jesus Christ Superstar were both release in 1973 has always amaze me. Two very different takes on Jesus yet in many ways both equally moving. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Our local High School Appo is performing Godspell and it has stood the test of time. They adapted some parts to relate to todays issues but the messages will always remain constant. It was a pleasure to see such great talent perform this classic.
What did you adapt from the original play?
The transition between empty streets to filled with people and traffic is such a cool shot. I'd love to know how it was done. Other than holding people back abd telling them to go after they turn the corner...I don't know
I can watch this song and all the rest Time after Time after Time. I may not believe in God but I believe in this musical.
It's a wonder they were able to vacate some pretty sizable chunks of Manhattan for this film. Probably is where most of the budget went.
Filmed over a holiday weekend. 3 days of filming.
@@Ghost63368 or maybe a Saturday or Sunday.
I heard they had actor call at 4am. They blocked off roads chunks at a time. Also. You notice no cars or even airplanes can be seen.
This was before cgi. Awesome work
Good thing they did it while they could ... nowadays ... EVERYTHING related to Jesus is verboten ... and they would not even get a budget let alone a permit to make sure a film. VERY sad times we live in.
@@robertdesantis7536 That was my thought. At the height of summer here in NYC, the sun is already up by 5:30...and on a weekend, the streets at that hour of the morning would probably be fairly empty already and easy to block off.
Thank you. Makes much sense. Appreciate 💙🌻💙🌻
And, although they are "only" clowns, these Disciples in New York in 1973 differ from those of 33AD in NOT being in disarray, NOT diminished by fear and confusion.
They get right back up and out there, KNOWing what to do and what to sing and where to go.
Was there ever a more optimistic portrayal of how things might be better?
Better the second time around?
Thanks be to British Director David Greene ... with quite a bit of help from the beloved, ever-active and ever-innovative Holy Spirit
Amazingly, people (esp. critics) see this ending as a sad and empty and dispiriting one, even claiming there is no Resurrection in it.
!!!
Blindndess remains, apparently!
But hope there is.
In me too, TBTG.
So it does indeed "make much sense", my dear friend...
Had to come back to this to make sure I had the right Schmicago reference. Still iconic!
The most emotional film ever made
There's music I like.
There's music that touches me.
And there's music that makes me cry.
The music of Godspell falls into the latter category,
To be in a crowded city as innocent as 1973.
New York City probably wasn't all that innocent in 1973.
I love the early scenes with the World Trade Centres.
@@debbietoornman5780 You're correct; NYC wasn't innocent, BUT this film gave hope.
Manofmanyinterests, you are correct.
actually it was filmed in summer/fall 1972.
NYC was a filthy and crime ridden in the 70s. Times Square was full of porn theaters.
I was 10yr when I saw this on TV..before social media z..No streaming 😁😁😁
Poor Victor's neck must have been aching afterwards
Unique and unforgettable ending.
I was in the army over seas when I first saw it I'm 68 now and still have the album
Long live God
It’s rare that a film version of a stage musical is better than the stage version, but I believe “Godspell” is one example. It is a very good film, and it was no small feat to pull off. I loved the idea of stooping time, as it were, and giving these kids the space and time and freedom from judging eyes to explore their hearts and minds and learn the teachings of Jesus. The turning-the-corner finale is cathartic: He has died for our sins, now we must turn our sadness (“Long Live God”) into celebration and into a mission to spread the Word (“Prepare Ye/Day by Day”). When the celebrants disappear around the corner, we feel emptiness, and we are curious as to where they went and want to rejoin them. Then when we entertain our curiosity and round the corner to catch up with them, they have returned to their lives, their busy lives, but imbued with the Spirit to share the Word of the Lord. Truly inspirational. This was no slap -dash production.
Prepare Ye, the Way Of The Lord....I love this so much
❤
This is Most beautiful & touching
❤
Thank you
🙏💜🙏
I am in tears when I watch this
And....the warriors finally made it home
I wish current tv or streaming would rebroadcast this musical
This scene works in every way. The way the music builds. The way characters go on to spread the news, and then fading into everyday people going about their business Footnote. I wish the uploader had included the end of the song, Probably could not because of legalities. Watch the film again. Paul Schaffer (of David Letterman fame) lays down a scorching keyboard solo! Man that guy can play! The musicians that drive this soundtrack, and the arrangements, were amazing!
I'm a guitar player but I've been "air-organ-ing" that solo for 45 years!
I see their turning the corner and disappearing into masses of people as how the gospel has been integrated into the world. this message, in the form of these people, dispersed like a drop water in the ocean, at once disappearing but also everywhere.
You got it, my friend!
The New Testament uses far more words to tell this (actually quite chaotic and not fully successful) story.
But that means ... THE TIME IS NOW.
We can do this, including with TH-cam to help us!
The above clip is masterly, and there are many, many more like it.
This is how the Holy Spirit wants (us) to reach people in 2023.
I was blind before, but now I see it...
and do it.
I would love to watch dis with my niece and nephew and talk about Jesus. Hope they put this on TCM soon
Love this Musical😊♥️
Goosebumps... Praise God!
The end of Godspell. A part of me also loved it cause Mario was a disciple lol
So powerful to watch the mourning band of misfits carry the dead body of Jesus and sing: "Pre-e-e-pare ye the way of the Lord!" It was his dead body that made null and void the old law that could condemn us; By his death, he destroyed him who has the power of death. By his death he condemned, -not us, but sin living in us, that his perfect law of love might be fully met in us. Look out world! Move aside. "Prepare ye the way of the Lord!"
Glory to God!
This entire film is perfect no matter your beliefs or inclinations. Just a great film and play.
I mean, if one had to go it would be adios Jesus Christ Superstar.
@@DadDudeBruh no I like Jesus Christ superstar better
That 1973 Movie based on the broadway musical Godspell needs to be added on TUBI tv and soon!
I wish I'd had a chance to see this live. I can only imagine the Ovations the audience gave these actors! I'm betting everyone on stage and in the audience was in tears.
Saw it twice years and years ago.
But I would suggest the movie (by Brit David Greene) is the greater work.
of course it is mostly down to the Holy Spirit anyway.
When we see "John" holding hands with the statue at the Bethesda Fountain in Central Park... and above we have the scene at the Hell Gate Bridge.
Yes, really, this movie makes the most of all possible symbolisms of an outdoor nature, while the above begins with a mockingbird singing ... David Greene would not even have known that as we don't have these birds in Britain).
That's a quaruple meaning right there:
- what has happened to Jesus involved mockery and is a mockery
- yet "To Kill a Mockingbird" is vastly powerful US culture, suggesting that we kill something innocent that only wants to sing to us and make our life beautiful, with no harm whatever in him...
- yet the Latin name of the mockingbird means the one who mimics and does so in every possible language - a nice nod to the Disciples sent out with the power of the Holy Spirit.
My Peace I Give You
And also with thee.
A stunning and poignant ending. I can clearly remember being moved to tears the first time I saw it over 40 years ago.
I only wish PatchesAndFacePaint could have let it run longer after the human race reappeared in the streets of New York City. Maybe it was cut short in this posting due to the fact that the closing credits started running? As I recall, the busy street scene ran the entire length of the closing credits.
Thanks for posting. I'm inspired to watch the movie again!
Happy Easter!!!
😁😁😁
🥚🥚🥚
Happy Easter. He is Risen. Alleluia!
One of my alltime favorite stage plays!!
Acabo de descubrir que esta película esta basada en un judaísmo mesiánico, sin demeritar nada, la escena de consagración esta en arameo, y en la cruz el hombre muere, no hay una resurrección, pasa a segundo plano y eso realmente no importa, sino la trascendencia de su enseñanza y la transformacion que manifiesta en nuestras vidas... La vi de niña pero hasta hoy que la vuelvo a encontrar despues de tantos años ❤ Gracias por esta obra del cine y maravillosa para el alma
With His passing we all have eternal life! 🙏
Long Live God!!!
At 2:39 you can see the last dancer quickly rush out of sight so that they could hide before the camera comes around the corner.
@ 2:31 You see a random person walking way in the background across the street BEFORE they all turn the corner... 😜
Fantastic ending, wish it wasn't cut tho, some great 'back to normal' shots afterwards.....if you look closely at 2:30 on the right, there's actually a stray person across the street. No big deal just a fun little aside.
The thing I like about this song is that, although the theology is off, the thought is wishing the best for God Himself. There’s no mention of our good, what we got out of Him or how great we are like so many modern “worship” songs.
A very profound comment, thanks.
The original Disciples were in dismay and disarray when Jesus died, and did not really know what to do for some while. They were also afraid, as they had good reason to be!
These "clowns" here are devastated, but also determined and completely fearless.
They know what they must do, and they do it with purpose.
Rather quickly "Long Live God" (of course not long dead God - just for the critics who claim this movie ignores the Resurrection) gives way to "Prepare ye the way of the Lord".
NOT prepare the way for the dead Lord, but for the Lord...
That moves on to joy, as we see so well, and - though New York is a tough place - they are NOT afraid to risk taking the Word, and the word, into that crowd.
The film therefore tells us that there is more hope in 1973 New York than in Ancient Israel.
The Paraclete was sent specifically in that kind of conviction...
And that was true for the characters within the confines of the film, but also beyond the movie in the real world. Many people were Born Again through "Godspell".
That is the Holy Spirit's doing.
We finish with the way we achieve the change we need: "Day By Day" brought back up to us from the 13th century and St Richard of Chichester (England).
Seeing Him more clearly, Loving Him more dearly, Following Him more nearly.
Something of tremendous power and meaning as they and their Master (Resurrected) disappear and disperse into the New York crowd.
Of course David Greene showed genius here, but the Holy Spirit was the Co-Director (even very meaningfully including the song of the mockingbird at the beginning of the clip we see above - Greene as a Brit would most likely not have even recognised the song. The presence of a mockingbird offers those who see at least three Signs in one go!!!)
I've seen both Godspell and J.C. Superstar many times over the years. But I didn't see Hair until 2008 during a performance to celebrate it's 40th Anniversary. After seeing it, now I have a better understanding of the trilogy of the three shows.
nope, sorry not allowed. you have to pick a side. team godspell? or team jc superstar?
@@meesalikeu 😅🤣😂
@@meesalikeu Both incredible. JCS, you have to understand, is the Passion Week through Judas's eyes, so things are a bit...twisted.
Long live God ...Prepare ye the way of the lord ... Day by day ... and is that Jesus being carried right past the Tree of Eternal Life (which Jesus was from the get-go) ... for he is risen body and soul reigning right now even as there is one more corner up the road to turn ... and that will be the real finale. And all those people ... if they abide in him then Jesus and the Father dwell within them. Is that not what Jesus taught? How much more quantum physics (superposition -entanglement-tunneling) does faith get??? Totally awesome in my view and wildly beyond mundane comprehension. Amen.
Revive this O Lord.
The ending shows why Jesus came to earth...so that God's children who came before and after him could live.😊😊.
it has always makes me cry
In case anyone wants to know where the junkyard was located in Godspell, here are the map coordinates: 40°47'8.12"N 73°55'32.58"W. Just enter it in Google Earth, or just Google it instead.
Aaron Morris OH MY GOODNESS TYSM!
Aaron Morris ugh youtube doesnt let u highlight and copy anymore
ARE YOU SURE IT WASNT ON THE QUEENS SIDE?
This type of movies are just bizarre. I saw it 21 years ago and I was confused. Altho this particular song is very good and catchy
I never seen it but creeped out. This is a movie about a cult right?😂😂
@@mewesquirrel6720 lol. It sure looks like it. There worshipping him like a god. Wtf?
@@johnhancock2914 Well, not surprising, really, is it? Father, Son and Holy Spirit complement each other, are one, are God, and are also love and truth in the universe.
The idea for them to be portrayed as clowns was bizarre-ish (and some are even dubious about it, after all clowns are all about pastiche). But the Holy Spirit got involved, as He does in such cases where art is seeking to supply faith, and the result is a masterpiece. The play, surely, but (British Director) David Greene's film is STUNNING. He's an outsider to New York, so he sees the beauty and the starkness even better than a native would. It's shown perfectly in the above scene.
Lacking a resurrection which is the main point for Jesus's being. Perhaps the singing "Long live God" is the symbolism for the resurrection.
Both he and his son love us so much
HE'S COMING BACK. YOU'D BETTER BELIEVE IT!!!!!!
Um classico da opera rock.
Rejoice Life 💙❤💜💚