THE ROAD TO MECCA

Based on Athol Fugard's play, THE ROAD TO MECCA is a deeply moving story about love, hope and endurance. Helen, a widow at age 50, is ostracized by her small community when she stops attending church. Her time is being spent building a magical sculpture gardenmodeled on Mecca-in her backyard. Fifteen years pass, during which she works obsessively on her “Mecca.” Sensing that the end is near, she writes to her only friend, Elsa (Oscar winner Kathy Bates), who makes the 500 mile journey to be with Helen in her time of need. While visiting, Elsa becomes locked in a confrontation with the village pastor, who is determined to have Helen sent to an institution for the aged. Thus the stage is set for a battle of wills. -Vancouver Film Festival.