10 Must-Watch Biographical Films About Monasteries

Description: Although not strictly about monastic life, this silent film captures the trial of Joan of Arc, who was influenced by her visions and the spiritual guidance she received, often in monastic settings.

Fact: The film is renowned for its close-up shots and emotional intensity, making it a landmark in cinematic history.

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

Fact: Jennifer Jones won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Bernadette.

Description: Audrey Hepburn stars as Sister Luke, a Belgian nurse who becomes a nun but struggles with the vows of obedience and poverty, set against the backdrop of World War II.

Fact: Hepburn, a devout Catholic, was initially reluctant to take on the role due to its depiction of a nun leaving the convent.

Description: Set in a 14th-century Italian monastery, this film follows a Franciscan friar and his novice as they investigate a series of mysterious deaths, touching on themes of knowledge, heresy, and monastic life.

Fact: The film is based on Umberto Eco's novel, and Sean Connery's performance as William of Baskerville is highly acclaimed.

Description: While not exclusively about monastic life, this film follows a father who walks the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route in honor of his deceased son, encountering monks and the spiritual aspects of the journey.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life experiences of its writer-director Emilio Estevez, who walked the Camino himself.

Description: This film tells the true story of the Cistercian monks of Tibhirine in Algeria, who faced a moral dilemma during the Algerian Civil War. It explores their decision to stay despite the growing danger, highlighting themes of faith, community, and sacrifice.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life events of 1996, and the actors underwent a retreat to better understand monastic life.

Description: Based on Matthew Lewis's gothic novel, this film follows the life of Capuchin monk Ambrosio, whose piety and virtue are tested by temptation and corruption. It's a dark tale of moral decay within the confines of a monastery.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations in Spain and France to capture the eerie atmosphere of the story.

Description: This documentary provides an intimate look at the daily lives of the Carthusian monks of the Grande Chartreuse monastery in France. It's a meditative exploration of silence, solitude, and the monastic life.

Fact: The film was shot over a period of six months, with the director living in the monastery to capture the essence of their existence.

Description: Another adaptation of Matthew Lewis's novel, this Spanish film explores the dark side of monastic life through the story of a monk who succumbs to temptation and sin.

Fact: The film was controversial for its time due to its explicit content and portrayal of religious figures.

Description: This French film tells the story of Thérèse of Lisieux, a Carmelite nun known for her "Little Way" of spiritual childhood and simplicity, which has inspired many.

Fact: The film was one of the first to depict the life of Thérèse, who was later canonized as a saint.