Lourdes (U)

Dir: Jessica Hausner
Austria / France / Germany 2009 100mins subtitled
Cast: Sylvie Testud, Lea Seydoux, Gilette Barbier

2009 Vienna International Film Festival’s Vienna Film Prize for best film

Following a pack of religious believers on a pilgrimage to Lourdes, Jessica Hausner’s (Lovely Rita, Hotel) third feature explores this major Christian shrine.

Christine (Testud) only acts pious so she can be taken on church trips. As she readily admits, she doesn’t get many chances to travel while stuck in a wheelchair.

Accompanied by a sceptical companion and surrounded by desperate souls seeking a miracle, Christine craves only company. From disbelieving volunteers to zealous church matriarchs, she is willing to befriend anyone with whom she comes into contact.

Christine’s pilgrimage to Lourdes is perplexing and wonderful in its misguided search. She will discover that the most important part of the journey is to believe in something, whether basic human kindness or divine intervention.

Sylvie Testud brings her character to vivid life under the nuanced direction of Hausner. Both guarded and yearning, this is a multi-faceted heroine.

There will be a post-screening discussion following the film on Sunday 23 May at 4pm.

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