Funny Story
I just clicked on a New York Times headline about, 'the most-watched film ever?' (You'll need to be registered to read it. Yep, it is free.) Turns out, the film the article is talking about is 1979's Jesus. Now, the article makes it clear that that 'most watched film ever' is a claim made by an religious group that uses the film as an outreach tool and that this is not backed up by actual numbers, but the article reminded me of a true incident I'll never forget.
I am six years old in 1979, and my church decides to take a group of adults and children to a midnight showing of the film. In a coincidence I simply cannot believe wasn't intentional, the other midnight film that night was....
The Rocky Horror Picture Show.
They had folks for both films lined up next to each other for a good thirty minutes or so.
My, did we young kids have LOADS of questions for our parents that night!
:-) Funny story indeed. Y'know, I've never seen either movie.
I wouldn't feel the need to rush to see either. The film Jesus certainly isn't worth your time, and Rocky Horror is really only worth it if you are indeed going out to a midnight showing. Watching the DVD at home will simply have you scratching your head as to the film's appeal.
Of course, so might a midnight showing, but at least surrounded with devotees, there's a chance. :)
Shalom, y'all!
L. Bangs
Applause for the movie theatre in question for having a tremendously subversive sense of humor. I mean, what theatre would offer midnight showings of Jesus and The Rocky Horror Picture Show? Subversive, indeed!
Yes, I really have to admire the person who conceived that one and then was able to pull it off. Salutes and huzzahs all around!
Shalom, y'all!
L. Bangs
Lol.
Is it still the most watched film ever BTW? (or did Passion of the Christ overtake it, for the same reason?)
I'm not sure. I think the claim is a bit dubious and unsubstantiated to begin with, but I certainly can't swear they are wrong...
Shalom, y'all!
L. Bangs
Your funny story gives me an idea for a funny list. A list of pairs of movies that would make for similarly embarrassing parallel lines of fans.
For example: Mad Max 2: The Road Warrior and Driving Miss Daisy.
Okay, it's not a hilarious example, but let's see someone do better.
I'd love to see a list like that!
Shalom, y'all!
L. Bangs
So if I list this idea for a new list here on this list do I have your permission to add that you have voted for it?
Yup!
Shalom, y'all!
L. Bangs
Done.