Fatima (2020)

Fatima Poster

In 1917, outside the parish of Fátima, Portugal, a 10-year-old girl and her two younger cousins witness multiple visitations of the Virgin Mary, who tells them that only prayer and suffering will bring an end to World War I. As secularist government officials and Church leaders try to force the children to recant their story, word of the sighting spreads across the country, inspiring religious pilgrims to flock to the site in hopes of witnessing a miracle..

Film Background
"Fatima" is a 2020 spiritual drama movie directed by Marco Pontecorvo. The movie focuses on the real story of three shepherd children in Fátima, Portugal, who declared to have seen apparitions of the Virgin Mary in 1917. The film stars Stephanie Gil, Lúcia Moniz, Joaquim de Almeida and Goran Visnjic.

Plot
The film is set throughout World War I when Portugal is gripped by violence and chaos. In the middle of this, the story concentrates on Lucia (Stephanie Gil) and her 2 young cousins, Francisco (Jorge Lamelas) and Jacinta (Alejandra Howard). The trio, while tending sheep, experiences a vision of a lady dressed all in white, who radiates brilliant light, considered as the Virgin Mary by Lucia. She informs them to hope, specifically for the conversion of sinners. The children are asked to return on the 13th day of monthly to satisfy her.

Conflict
Word of the apparitions spreads across the town, triggering a questionable divide. Numerous believe it's a hoax, a result of children's imagination gone too wild. The secular government leaders and some of the Catholic Church's figures consider this as an interruption from the turbulent realities of the time. The children deal with extreme analysis and even dangers from officials who want to reduce their story.

Resolution
Despite all the reaction and doubt, the kids stay steadfast. In October 1917, a large crowd gathers, and doubters are shocked when they witness what ends up being known as 'The Miracle of the Sun'. The event begins with heavy rain however ends with the sun appearing to dance in the sky, experienced by 10s of countless people, including government authorities, journalists, and skeptics from far and wide. The wonder enhances the children's witness, and the apparitions are considered deserving of belief by the Catholic Church.

Crucial Analysis
"Fatima" is a faith-based movie that beautifully portrays the power of belief and innocence. The young actors provide engaging performances, making the audience feel the worry, turmoil, and faith the children must have experienced. The film accurately represents the turbulence of the time, catching the problems the poor villagers experience and the distress triggered by war and the Spanish Flu Pandemic.

While some parts of the story might seem recurring, the intense reactions from all sides make it a captivating journey. The director and cinematographer have actually wonderfully caught the landscapes of Fatima and the celestial vision, making it a visual treat for audiences.

Conclusion
"Fatima" is successful in narrating over a century old that still resonates with audiences today. The movie is a testimony to steadfast faith and the unrelenting pursuit of truth. Despite the unrelenting examination and skepticism, the young seers remain undaunted in their testimonies. The film is stirring and provides a thought-provoking expedition of belief, faith and the power of prayer, making it a must-watch for audiences thinking about spiritual or historical dramas.

Top Cast

  • Harvey Keitel (small)
    Harvey Keitel
    Professor Nichols
  • Sônia Braga (small)
    Sônia Braga
    Sister Lucia
  • Goran Visnjic (small)
    Goran Visnjic
    Artur
  • Joaquim de Almeida (small)
    Joaquim de Almeida
    Father Ferreira
  • Lúcia Moniz (small)
    Lúcia Moniz
    Maria Rosa
  • Joana Ribeiro (small)
    Joana Ribeiro
    Mary
  • Stephanie Gil (small)
    Stephanie Gil
    Lucia
  • Catarina Mira (small)
    Catarina Mira
    Tradeswoman
  • Ana Moreira (small)
    Ana Moreira
    Laic Nun
  • Alba Baptista (small)
    Alba Baptista
    Mrs. Lopez Daughter
  • João Arrais (small)
    João Arrais
    Manuel Santos