Bernadette
1988 History / Drama
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Credits
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Summary
In the 1850s, a young woman, Bernadette Soubirous, is growing up with her poor working
class family in the French town of Lourdes. One day, whilst out walking with her
sisters, she has a strange vision. A divine woman bathed in a white light appears
to her. When the townsfolk get to hear this story, Bernadette is ridiculed by those
in authority and revered by people of her own class. Her life has been changed forever...
Review
Towards the very end of his long and distinguished filmmaking career, director Jean Delannoy
turned his attention to religious subjects, including this largely accurate and compelling
portrait of the life of Saint Bernadette of Lourdes. In contrast to many religious
films, Delannoy’s approach is very direct and down-to-earth, portraying his subject
with humanity, even a touch of comedy. The film doesn’t show us what Bernadette
saw but focuses on the way in which the event transforms her life and the lives of those
around her. Whilst not a great film, of the stature of some of Delannoy’s
earlier classics, it is beautifully filmed with a close attention to historical detail,
and tells its story effectively, with warmth, compassion and a touch of irony. Delannoy
told the second part of Saint Bernadette's story (her life in the convent) in the film's
sequel, La Passion de Bernadette (1989).
© James Travers 2004 Write a review for this film... |
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