Movie Review: "Clare and Francis"

Mr. P.'s movie review grade: A

On this Feast of St. Francis of Assisi, after whom the City of San Francisco, California, is named, here's a great DVD to get, starring Italian actor Ettore Bassi as Francis and Italian actress Mary Petruolo as Clare, with Fabrizio Costa as director.

You can click HERE to order.

One thing many people don't know about him is that St. Francis was a stigmatist who mystically bore the wounds of the Crucified Jesus.  He was also a deacon who, according to a pious legend, did not feel himself worthy of the holy priesthood.

Also, if you were to read G.K. Chesterton's work St. Francis of Assisi (1924), you'll definitely walk away with the great sense that Francis's life was about Jesus Christ as the center.  Jesus was the center of Francis's life. 

Francis today can be portrayed -- or rather misportrayed -- as a New Age hippie-type figure. Francis was not a hippie or some environmentalist.  Christ was the center of his life.  Everything else (environment, animals, etc.) flowed from his love for God.

There's a great scene with Francis and the Muslim Sultan in the Holy Land.  Had the political figures heeded to Francis's efforts in the Middle East, we probably today would not have the turmoil that we do.  But that's for another day to talk about.

For now, check out the video teaser and enjoy!

I love how the spiritual friendship between Clare and Francis reflected not just friendship but Christian friendship.

This blog was launched on the Feast of St. Clare, so this DVD has special meaning.  Click HERE for my last blog on St. Clare, who is one of the patronesses of Mr. P.'s Classroom blog.

BTW, while the acting was great, the "A" grade above was not based on merits of acting but rather on the substance of the movie. 

Lord, make me a channel of Your peace.

HW: Live the Franciscan spirituality and the love of the Poor Clares.

Class dismissed.