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The buzz around the film ‘Mother’ is palpable, especially with its premiere at the Venice Film Festival’s Horizons strand. Starring the talented Noomi Rapace in the lead role, this film delves into the life of Mother Teresa during a transformative moment in her spiritual journey.
The trailer teases an intimate look at the internal battles faced by this iconic figure, as she strives to establish a new religious order in Kolkata, India, in August 1948. Curious about how a simple nun became a global icon? Let’s dive in!
A pivotal moment in history
Set against the vibrant backdrop of post-colonial India, ‘Mother’ unfolds over seven pivotal days in Teresa’s life. At this point, she is the Mother Superior of the Sisters of Loreto convent, caught in a whirlwind of decisions about leaving her monastery to pursue her vision of a new religious community.
The film doesn’t just shine a light on her aspirations; it digs deep into the dilemmas that tested her faith. What does it mean to balance personal dreams with spiritual obligations? This is where the film truly shines, exploring the intricate layers of her character during a crucial time.
Director Teona Strugar Mitevska brings a fresh perspective to the narrative, having previously explored Teresa’s life in her documentary ‘Teresa and I.’ Her extensive research, including interviews with those close to Teresa, results in a portrayal that goes beyond the typical saintly image.
Instead, she frames Teresa as a visionary leader, likening her to a “CEO of a multinational company”—driven, ambitious, and determined to make a significant impact.
Challenging the narrative of sainthood
Mitevska’s exploration doesn’t shy away from the more controversial sides of Teresa’s life.
The film takes a bold step in addressing Teresa’s views on abortion, which invites a deeper understanding of the woman behind the global icon. The screenplay, co-written by Goce Smilevski, Mitevska, and Elma Tataragić, highlights a distinctly female narrative, steering clear of traditional martyrdom tropes. This refreshing approach encourages us to rethink our perceptions of Teresa, providing insight into what truly motivated her eventual canonization.
The artistic vision for ‘Mother’ is enhanced by the talents of cinematographer Virginie Saint Martin and editor Per K. Kirkegaard, who collaborate to create a visually stunning experience. With production design by Vuk Mitevski and a score by Magali Gruselle and Flemming Nordkrog, audiences will be fully immersed in the historical and emotional currents of Teresa’s journey.
What to expect from the film
As ‘Mother’ gears up for its release, viewers can look forward to a film that not only chronicles the life of Mother Teresa but also invites contemplation on the complexities of faith, ambition, and the human experience. The international collaboration involving production companies from Belgium and North Macedonia highlights the film’s wide-reaching appeal and dedication to telling this important story with both depth and authenticity.
With Kinology managing world sales and Adler Entertainment distributing in Italy, ‘Mother’ aims to connect with audiences around the globe, sparking discussions about the legacy of one of history’s most influential figures. As we anticipate its release, it promises to engage viewers in meaningful conversations about the nuances of faith and the intricate web of human ambition. How will this film change the way we view such an iconic figure? Only time will tell!
