Wednesday, December 15, 2004

Sometimes I hate “based on true events” movies - because invariably they are the most depressing movies ever made. I do not exaggerate. A prime example is The Magdalene Sisters.

Three young Irish women struggle to maintain their spirits while they endure dehumanizing abuse as inmates of a Magdalene Sisters Asylum.

What those poor girls endured is heartbreaking. And infuriating. Because the people who perpetrated unspeakable acts of humiliation, pain, and abuse on these girls were cloaked in nun’s habits and priest’s collars and claimed the name of Christ. They came straight from the pit of Hell, imho. I’m grieved for the thousands of real girls and women who endured such pain at the hands of clergy. It’s just another black mark against the Catholic church establishment in my book - and there are many already. Sheesh. In addition to the physical sufferings these girls endured, the heresy they were taught about their sin, God’s grace, and their redemption was also cruel. For not once were they taught the Truth.

The movie, for all that it’s dark and unrelenting, is quite good. It was hard to watch; there were many scenes that were uncomfortably graphic (there is nudity). The acting was excellent - I didn’t recognize any of the Irish actors, but their performances were stunning. And I’m speaking of the evil nuns as much as the girls.

This is not a movie for everyone. I don’t recommend that you run right out to rent it. But if you like a well-made, critical movie, then you might appreciate The Magdalene Sisters. I give it a qualified 3.5 out of 5 stars.