10 Inspiring Biographical Films About Nuns

Description: Although not strictly a biopic about a nun, Joan of Arc's story of faith, trial, and martyrdom resonates with themes of religious conviction and sacrifice, making it a fitting inclusion.

Fact: This silent film is renowned for its close-up shots and emotional intensity, with Renée Falconetti giving one of the most celebrated performances in cinema history.

Description: This film recounts the life of Bernadette Soubirous, a young peasant girl who saw visions of the Virgin Mary in Lourdes, France, leading to the establishment of a major pilgrimage site.

Fact: Jennifer Jones won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her role as Bernadette. The film was also nominated for 11 other Oscars.

Description: A sequel to "Going My Way," this film focuses on Sister Mary Benedict, a nun who works to save her school from closure, showcasing the everyday challenges and joys of religious life.

Fact: Bing Crosby reprised his role as Father O'Malley, and the film was one of the top-grossing films of

Description: This film follows the journey of Sister Luke, a Belgian nurse who becomes a nun, only to face internal and external conflicts that test her faith and commitment to her vows. It's a poignant exploration of the clash between personal desire and religious duty.

Fact: Audrey Hepburn received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role as Sister Luke. The film was based on the autobiographical novel by Kathryn Hulme, who was inspired by her friend, Marie Louise Habets, a real-life nun.

Description: This film follows the journey of Sister Luke, a Belgian nurse who becomes a nun, only to face internal and external conflicts that test her faith and commitment to her vows. It's a poignant exploration of the clash between personal desire and religious duty.

Fact: Audrey Hepburn received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role as Sister Luke. The film was based on the autobiographical novel by Kathryn Hulme, who was inspired by her friend, Marie Louise Habets, a real-life nun.

Description: While focusing on Helen Keller, the film also portrays the life of her teacher, Anne Sullivan, who was once a student at the Perkins School for the Blind, run by nuns. It's a story of perseverance and the transformative power of education.

Fact: Anne Bancroft and Patty Duke both won Academy Awards for their roles, with Duke becoming the youngest person at the time to win an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress.

Description: A psychological drama about a novice nun who gives birth to a baby, claiming she was unaware of her pregnancy. The film delves into themes of faith, science, and the supernatural, making it a compelling addition to this list.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life case of Sister Mary Ignatius, who was accused of giving birth in a convent. Jane Fonda, Anne Bancroft, and Meg Tilly all received critical acclaim for their performances.

Description: While not exclusively about a nun, Sister Helen Prejean's story of her work with death row inmates is a powerful testament to the influence of religious conviction and compassion. This film highlights the transformative power of faith in the face of adversity.

Fact: Susan Sarandon won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Sister Helen Prejean. The film was adapted from Prejean's non-fiction book of the same name.

Description: This film explores the life of Mother Teresa through her letters, revealing her struggles, her faith, and her work with the poor in Calcutta. It's a moving portrayal of one of the most revered figures in modern religious history.

Fact: The film was shot in India, where Mother Teresa worked, providing an authentic backdrop to her story. It also features a performance by Juliet Stevenson as Mother Teresa.

Description: Based on Denis Diderot's novel, this French film tells the story of a young woman forced into a convent against her will, highlighting the oppressive aspects of religious life in 18th-century France.

Fact: The film was banned in France upon release due to its controversial depiction of religious life, but it was later allowed to be shown.