...not-so-fascinating movie. I agree with others that this is likely the finest film of Hepburn's career. It's an endlessly fascinating glimpse into religious life that doesn't sensationalize or mock or glorify the institutions. It simply tells what the sisters do.
As such, it's utterly compelling. As a film, though, the pace is extremely slow and the dialogue very restricted (due to the vows of silence!).
My aunt was a nun for over 50 years at around the same time the story is set, so I found the exploration of religious life completely compelling. But, unless I need a quick factoid on celluloid, I don't think I need to see this picture again. It simply doesn't have enough else going on it to hold my interest over the entire length of the film. I'm far more likely now to explore the topic in non-fiction books.
As such, it's utterly compelling. As a film, though, the pace is extremely slow and the dialogue very restricted (due to the vows of silence!).
My aunt was a nun for over 50 years at around the same time the story is set, so I found the exploration of religious life completely compelling. But, unless I need a quick factoid on celluloid, I don't think I need to see this picture again. It simply doesn't have enough else going on it to hold my interest over the entire length of the film. I'm far more likely now to explore the topic in non-fiction books.