Question about "The Last Temptation of Christ" and John the Baptist

Factual Questions
1

I watched the aforementioned film tonight and was generally impressed with it. But, I have a question.

About an hour into the movie Jesus is introduced to John the Baptist. He’s rantin’ and ravin’ as he should be, and there is a group of people with him.

Some are naked, some are clothed, some are dancing, some are standing still, some are in the water, and some are on land, etc.

What the hell was that all about? What’s the Dope on John the Baptist, and what he did?

2

Not sure if the question is about the movie’s John or the “real” one.
Well here’s some info St. John the Baptist

3

Yeah right…
John

4

Sorry about the misleading OP, but I’m referring to the JtB in the film, who probably is not the same one as in the gospels.

Thanks for the links, I’ll check 'em out.