Archive · 7 Sep 2025
You Had to Be There Review: Godspell Sparked Comedy Revolution
Imagine a group of young, talented people putting on a play called Godspell in Toronto in 1972.
This documentary is about them!
The play launched the careers of famous comedians like Gilda Radner, Martin Short, and Eugene Levy.
The film shows how these performers became lifelong friends.
It also shares funny stories, like how Martin Short recorded the show.
The film celebrates their success, their friendships, and how they influenced the comedy we see today.
It's like watching the start of something big, funny, and full of heart.
The documentary 'You Had to Be There' premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival.
It explores the impact of the 1972 Toronto production of the musical Godspell.
The show featured unknown talents like Gilda Radner, Martin Short, and Eugene Levy.
The documentary includes audio recordings and animations to show the original production.
The film showcases how the show influenced future generations of comedians.
- Who
- The documentary focuses on the cast and crew of the 1972 Toronto production of Godspell.
- What
- The documentary details the creation of the 1972 Toronto production of Godspell and its impact on comedy.
- When
- The original production was in 1972, with the film premiering at the 2025 Toronto International Film Festival.
- Where
- Toronto, Canada.
- Why
- The documentary explores how the Toronto Godspell production led to numerous successful careers in comedy.
- Film Title
- You Had to Be There
- Director
- Nick Davis
- Subject
- 1972 Toronto Godspell Production
- Key Cast
- Eugene Levy, Martin Short, Gilda Radner
- Premiere
- Toronto International Film Festival
- Running Time
- 1 hr 38 min