Of Gods and Men (2010)
Certified: 12
Duration: 120 minutes
Directed by: Xavier Beauvois
Starring: Lambert Wilson, Michael Lonsdale, Olivier Rabourdin, Philippe Laudenbach, Jacques Herlin, Loïc Pichon, Xavier Maly, Jean-Marie Frin, Abdelhafid Metalsi, Sabrina Ouazani
KRS release
Set in 1990s Algeria, Of Gods and Men is based on real-life events. It follows a group of Christian Trappist monks as they seemingly live in harmony within a predominantly Muslim society. Their life is defined by their teaching, their modest outlook and their belief in their faith. They only want to strengthen relations with the rest of society and be of help in the community.
However, their faith is soon tested as civil unrest and fundamentalism reach their doorstep. This is followed by the terrorists requiring and requesting their help in the form of medical supplies and the assistance of their physician Luc (Michael Lonsdale). The monks must decide whether to stay in this situation that has become too violent for them, or flee.
Of Gods and Men is a testament of faith, whether it is in the faith in God or in the inner qualities of man. It is sometimes a bit too plodding and overlong in some areas, but these are easily forgiven as this is an enriching and spiritually uplifting tale. It is ripe with drama and asks many questions with regards to living a religious life, obedience and one’s relationship with God. Yet it is not overdone with theological discussion.
Director Xavier Beauvois’s picture is a political movie without the politics as it tries to push no agenda but focuses on the great divide between what is right and wrong and the power of one’s conviction and the effect this has on one’s choices.
The film is also imbued with a rich aesthetic texture that further adds tone to the events, discussions and decisions taken.
Lambert Wilson’s monastery’s leader and Michael Lonsdale’s Luc are well-rounded characters that never slip into oversimplified personas. The expressions on the cast’s faces throughout the film tell a 1,000 different stories.
Of Gods and Men wears its convictions and courage like a badge, very much in the same manner as its heroes. This is a movie for the discerning viewer, one who wants to watch movies with a hint of challenge and not just the salty whiff of popcorn.
The film garnered several awards including grand prize of the jury at the Cannes Film Festival and best foreign language film from the London Critics Film Circle.