Viridiana
Directed by Luis Bunuel
In Spainish, with Subtitles
1961
I'm on a Bunuel kick, having just discovered the prolific multi-lingual director this summer. So another one of his great ones - this time the 1961 Cannes winner.
Viridiana is a devout novice just about to take her lifetime vows as a catholic nun when she is ordered to visit her rich uncle patron by Mother Superior. This trip back into the real world is a spiritual challenge for the absolutely stunning nun, spitting image of the uncle's former spouse.
Viridiana does decide to leave the nunnery, but also continue her own good works. She decides to use the reclusive uncle's estate as a homeless shelter. Her playboy cousin doesn't think it is a good idea, but does not interfere.,
Yes, Viridiana, there are still many lessons to be learned about life, and you will learn them well, and with class.
BTW, I know subtitles are tough for some, but it is also not a bad way to get some language practice in. I maybe get a third of the dialogue, but it's still a bonus. Bunuel, born in Aragon, also did work in French and English.
