People sometimes ask what the difference is between a religion and a cult. Defining the difference is not always easy. But this is a film that lends itself to such an analysis. An abundance of ritualism certainly might be a hallmark of a cult. Also, strong dogma and strict rules. Certainly a strong personality at the head of the hierarchy may be an indicator, which is often why we hear the term "cult of personality".
"Novitiate" follows a group of novice nuns, newly devoted to the monastic life, as they struggle to adapt to the spartan regimen. At the head of this house is the Reverend Mother (Melissa Leo), a woman dedicated to traditions that may no longer be Vatican-approved. She rules with absolute authority over her novices and seems to relish the harsher aspects of the lifestyle.
The camera focuses on Sister Cathleen (Margaret Qualley, daughter of Andie MacDowell. You may also see her in "Fosse/Verdon".) Her role may remind some of Audrey Hepburn's role in "The Nun's Story", but "Novitiate" has a harder edge, mostly due to the Reverend Mother.
The acting is strong and believable. Even if you have no particular interest in Catholic doctrine, it is easy to identify with the young women who choose to undergo such radical changes in their lives. The illusion that they forgo ownership of free will, is just that---an illusion. But at some point, willful subservience to authority comes very close to a loss of free will. And this creates a struggle for some of the novitiates. This is central to the drama of the film. Likewise, it asks us to consider the mental health aspects of the willful sacrifice of one's ego and freedom.
"Novitiate" follows a group of novice nuns, newly devoted to the monastic life, as they struggle to adapt to the spartan regimen. At the head of this house is the Reverend Mother (Melissa Leo), a woman dedicated to traditions that may no longer be Vatican-approved. She rules with absolute authority over her novices and seems to relish the harsher aspects of the lifestyle.
The camera focuses on Sister Cathleen (Margaret Qualley, daughter of Andie MacDowell. You may also see her in "Fosse/Verdon".) Her role may remind some of Audrey Hepburn's role in "The Nun's Story", but "Novitiate" has a harder edge, mostly due to the Reverend Mother.
The acting is strong and believable. Even if you have no particular interest in Catholic doctrine, it is easy to identify with the young women who choose to undergo such radical changes in their lives. The illusion that they forgo ownership of free will, is just that---an illusion. But at some point, willful subservience to authority comes very close to a loss of free will. And this creates a struggle for some of the novitiates. This is central to the drama of the film. Likewise, it asks us to consider the mental health aspects of the willful sacrifice of one's ego and freedom.