Lourdes

Does God truly save? For what reason? And if so why you? The premise and delivery for this picture is excellent. Set in a highly religious environment as a brilliant critique of God's existence, presence and power. It truly questions if he is really there and why some are graced with his mercy and others are not. The hatred and loathing of the self-appointed "devouts" is accurately depicted all though subtle very simlar to reality. The motif of the Virgin Mary not only in context and soundtrack but plot as well really rings the idea home that God's intentions stand to be questioned. If God loves all and is all powerful why does he chose a select few to reflect His love. Is this just? Not even those who lay down their life for Him are spared and granted mercy. The films symbolic, refined and detailed mise-en-scène are very show AND tell. Making for a very easy time to extract the various messages the film offers. The performances from the whole cast bar possibly Sylvie Testud are very timid and subtle which lend themselves to the sacred pilgrimage site the film is set in and drive home the apparent focused nature of attempted devotion. The film is shot beautifully, every scene is outstandingly pleasing on the eye. The framing and position of the cast in relation to their setting is exquisite. I love, love, love, the vibrancy of the colour throughout during brighter scenes and the lighting is perfection. In addition to that the soundtrack is remarkable. Bar the dub which was a bit jarring from time to time however I also believe it lends itself very well to the multicultural aspect of the religion this feature is impeccable. Lourdes is a must watch.