BroadcastChic
Excellent, a Must See
Sarita Rafferty
There are moments that feel comical, some horrific, and some downright inspiring but the tonal shifts hardly matter as the end results come to a film that's perfect for this time.
Kinley
This movie feels like it was made purely to piss off people who want good shows
robert-connor
Towards the end of the second world war, an order of Italian nuns makes all attempts to secure the freedom of Jewish children held captive in a local concentration camp. However when the camp comes under the direct control of German troops, the Sisters' task becomes increasingly dangerous.Combing elements of The Von Trapp Story and Black Narcissus, Conspiracy of Hearts is a surprisingly powerful depiction of the clash between faith and might, as Palmer's Mother Superior stands firm against Lieven's uncompromising Nazi Colonel. The question of conscience and commitment to duty is repeatedly explored, from the perspective of both nun and soldier - Mitchell's Sister Gerta fears and doubts the Holy Order's actions, Sims' novitiate Sister Mitya is forced to confront her feelings towards Lewis's Major Spoletti, who in turn must choose between military duty and moral salvation. The juxtaposition between Catholicism and Judaism is also fascinatingly explored as the Sisters struggle to comprehend the facets of a different faith.Universally well-performed by the ensemble, as usual its the supporting performances that stand out - Yvonne Mitchell was a power-house actress and at the peak of her film career (shockingly she is all but forgotten now), and her transformation from angry doubter to selfless devotee is totally believable. In addition, Ralph Thomas coaxes extraordinary performances from his juvenile cast - Rebecca Dignam and Joseph Cuby are beautifully moving without being cutesy or maudlin (Hollywood child actors take note!). At the heart, Palmer creates a depiction of quiet strength, dignity and humour even if we could have coped with a little less lipstick and mascara!
inspire_wisdom
Please can this beautiful film regarding Christian suffering and the understanding of standing for principles of truth be re-released on DVD. Even though I am not a Catholic Christian, but of another part of the family of Christ, I attended a Catholic school and I just feel this a really beautiful film.May God Bless all those Christians that risked their lives to save Jews and the weak in Nazi Occupied Europe. I feel these kind of films must be shown to an ignorant generation of people that have forgotten the horrors of World War 2. The wish of those that gave their lives in World War 2 for freedom and peace is that "We don't forget".Even if we look at the World now there is still genocide still taking place against vulnerable people just because they are different or speak different.
philphoto
My Mother took me to see this film at the Lowestoft Odeon around 1960 (I was 8) . Why I remember it is that the Cinema Manager told my Mother that the film was on its first screening in the UK even before London (dunno why) and there would be a surprise after the film. The surprise was the Actor Ronald Lewis who came on stage . Unfortunately some of the audience hissed him which put him off a little-he said 'Im one of the Good Guys' or words to that effect but then gave us an interesting talk about making the film. I didn't understand the movie at the time really but seeing it this afternoon was the first time since then. The film showed the Italian troops in a good, professional light when our Dads at the time told us that they had 'chased them all over North Africa'
marcosaguado
I saw it when I was 8 years old, I'm almost 40 now and I always remember this movie. Catholic nuns in France, hiding Jewish children in their convent during the occupation. Lilli Palmer, I remember her face vividly. There must be a reason, but I can't find a copy of that film, not even on video. Maybe, I should keep the memory as it is, rather than jeopardizing it by seeing again, today. I couldn't sleep after I saw it. I think I lived that film. It happened to me another time, when I was around the same age. A Spanish movie, MARCELINO PAN Y VINO. Strangely enough, both films have religious roots and take place within the walls of convents and monasteries. I wonder what that means.
