 Pierson included in his draft explicit religious symbolism . The film contains several elements based on Christian themes , including the concept of Luke as a Saint who wins over the crowds and is ultimately sacrificed . Newman 's character of Luke is portrayed as a " Jesus @-@ like redeemer figure . " After winning the egg @-@ eating bet , Luke lies exhausted on the table in the position of Jesus as depicted on his crucifixion . After learning about the death of his mother , Luke sings " Plastic Jesus . " Greg Garrett also compares Luke to Jesus , in that like Jesus , he was not physically threatening to society because of his actions , and like Jesus ' crucifixion , his punishment was " out of all proportion . " 
