War

Based on real people and real events, filmed within months of Rome’s liberation as WWII was coming to an end, capturing on film the ruin of the city in a rough but electrifying style, Roberto Rosselini’s Rome, Open City brought Italian Neorealism to the attention of the world. Tense, passionate and naturalistic, the film uses its documentary style to melodramatic effect bringing us the story of individuals connected to the Italian resistance as they attempt to outmaneuver the Gestapo and survive the war. Rossellini, being one of the most ‘Catholic’ of filmmakers, creates a masterpiece that invites all who encounter it in a “thrilling call to conscience and hope” (Kristin Jones, Wall Street Journal).

Pope Francis cites it as one of his favourite films, and after watching it, we trust you will applaud his choice.

IN THIS POST

*The Choice To Live Well in Rome Open City by Benard Chedid

*A Reflection on Don Pietro by Pablo Vila

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Paths of Glory

A war film that gives us one of the strongest anti war sentiments ever. If war is Hell, then we see true evil at work in the corruption of those in power and in a system that treats the human person as a mere object, as means to the greater end of victory. It is a film that is truly shocking it its depiction of moral bankruptcy and the persecution of the powerless. Grandly crafted, its technique serves to create a bold vision and captivating story, and then fills the frame with incredible performances from all the actors. A film that has no women until the last scene possibly speaks the loudest about the power of the feminine genius and its necessity in bringing man back to humanity. The spellbinding and rather strange finale offers an exploited woman as a figure of hope and a reminder of the higher nature that mankind is called to, and all too often forgets.

IN THIS POST

*A Reflection on Evil in ‘Paths of Glory’ by Pablo Vila

*A Catholic Imagining of ‘Paths of Glory’ by Fr. Peter Kwak

*The Casualty of War by Benard Chedid

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