The Monk (Le moine)

Year: 2011
Country: FRANCE, SPAIN
Run Time: 101 minutes

Based on a Gothic novel from 1796, THE MONK chronicles the fall from innocence of a devout Spanish monk. Vincent Cassel ("Ocean's Twelve," "Black Swan") is Capucin Ambrosio, an impassioned Padre whose fervent sermons fire the imaginations of many who come to Mass in the ancient monastery. Earnest beyond measure, Ambrosio has never committed a transgression, making him much feared and admired among his fellows. Then a mysterious figure appears at the cloister—Valerio, who wears a mask to hide his severely-burned face. He fervently desires to become part of the order, and he practically worships Ambrosio. But horror has writhed its way into the monastery for Valerio is actually a she-devil, bent on destroying the pious Father. Once Ambrosio satisfies his carnal lust for this girl, he is overcome with desire for another—the virginal Antonia. This torrid film, set in the labyrinthine walls of a closed community at the time of the Spanish Inquisition, burrows into sinister places where hubris and lust pave the way for iniquity. (In French with subtitles) –B.B.

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