Messiah

About This Movie

Messiah (1999) is a fascinating blend of the sacred and the absurd, crafted by filmmaker William Klein. The documentary takes Handel’s oratorio and runs it through a surrealist lens, juxtaposing the spiritual narrative of Christ's life with striking, often jarring visuals that highlight human folly and societal issues. The pacing can be a bit erratic, as it oscillates between the grandeur of the music and stark images that challenge the viewer's comfort level. The performances are quite raw, lending a visceral quality that makes the viewing experience memorable. It's interesting how it captures the essence of the music while simultaneously critiquing the very foundations of faith and humanity, leaving you pondering long after the credits roll.

Unique interpretation of a classic oratorioCombines documentary and concert film stylesOffers a critical look at societal norms and faith