Movies

Fred Zinneman's fine, thoughtful and absorbing film succeeds in making inner turmoil palpable thanks in large part to Audrey Hephurn's luminous performance. The nun's habit forces us to concentrate on her face, and Hephurn performs with sustained strength, grace and skill; virtues present in Zinneman's direction as well. Zinneman elicits excellent performances from the entire cast in which Dame Edith Evans and Colleen Dewhurst stand out. Though somewhat long and episodic, The Nun's Story is one of the best films dealing with religious life, and the ending is memorable. Zinneman, who directed The Sundowners(60) A Man for all Seasons(66) Julia(76) and From Here to Eternity(53), maintains an admirably objective tone throughout. Along with Hitchcock's North by Northwest and Billy Wilder's Some Like It Hot, The Nun's Story was the best American film released in 1959, though the Oscar for Best Picture went to Ben Hur.

Audrey Hepburn gives her greatest performance in this thoughtful epic. This is the type of movie that stays with you for the rest of your life and after it is over, you know you've witnessed art. The length of the movie is not an issue, as everything that occurs is compelling. I must mention Colleen Dewhurst's small part also - she, too, is unforgettable.

This movie reveals the very rare insight of what happens in a cloistered Monastic Roman Catholic Seminary. (**not sure of these titles**) My family and myself absolutely loved this movie. It is so realistic with an enormous cast of extras. The acting and Directing and the mystical scenes in the African Congo were breathtakingly beautiful. This movie tells a true story about the trials and hardships of those striving for perfection by adhering to the strictness of their vows, being Chastity, Obedience , etc.Audrey Hepburn is superb as the Nun. All those who played the other Nuns were so convincing in their roles. This is one of the most realistic movies I have ever seen. This is a real treat and true story. James Welch Henderson Arkansas 4/17/21.