The Passion Live

Hosted by Tyler Perry, this 2016 Fox-aired live production centering on the last hours of Jesus Christ was filmed in Perry's hometown of New Orleans, LA, where the performers alternate between various locations and an outdoor stage (the singers use wireless mics). Behind the stage, choir members and musicians provide accompaniment as Perry narrates, and songs are presented that combine originals with covers from Tina Turner, Tears for Fears, and other pop artists. After an introductory number by Yolanda Adams, the scene moves to a train where Jesus (Jencarlos Canela) sings—with backup from the disciples—before going on to meet up with Judas (American Idol finalist Chris Daughtry). Throughout, Mary Magdalene (country singer Trisha Yearwood in a pop register) sings from the stage. Loaves and fishes come into play when Jesus stops by a food cart to pick up supper for his crew, cautioning that one of them will betray him, which leads to a power ballad from Judas and a duet with Jesus (the apostle Peter, played by Prince Royce, also sings a few songs). By the time of his fateful encounter with Pontius Pilate (Seal), Jesus has changed into an orange jumpsuit. If Seal brings gravitas to the proceedings, the trial veers towards the cheesy when the choir sings "We Don't Need Another Hero." Instead of portraying the Crucifixion, Perry offers description while Yearwood sings beside a large illuminated cross. Upon his Resurrection, Jesus reappears atop a tall building to perform a final number as the rest of the cast joins Perry on stage. Presented in Dolby Digital 5.1 and stereo, this is somewhat uneven, but given the key involvement by Perry and the presence of Yearwood and Seal, it is also likely to be popular. Recommended. (K. Fennessy)