Russian Religious Films Since Communism
May 2–The Monastery: Mr. Vig and the Nun The true story about an 82-year-old Danish bachelor Mr. Vig who for 50 years has owned an old castle in Denmark with the hope of one day establishing a monastery. Mr. Vig’s lifelong dream is about to come true. But the Russian nuns he has recruited have plans and wills of their own, and Mr. Vig must realize that the road to fulfilling his dream is very different than what he imagined. Written by Permille Rose Gronkjaer.
May 9–The Romanovs: Crowned Family A drama by acclaimed Russian director Gleb Panfilov, recounting the final two grueling years of the last tsar, Nicholas II, and his family. Beautifully filmed and delicately faithful to history, the film depicts not only the events but the vivid personalities of this tragic era.
May 16–Parables (??????) Comic art-film containing video sketches or “parables” on traditional Russian religious themes, including “The Unusual Obedience,” “O Lord, Why Do You Not Hear Our Prayers?,” and “Christ is Coming to Dinner.”
May 30–Parables II (?????? 2) A second “volume” of parables, reflecting themes similar to ancient tales of the Desert Fathers of early Christianity but set in contemporary Belarus, including tales about judging others, forgiveness, and the virtue of simplicity.
Father Justin Patterson will be the facilitator for these Russain-language films with subtitles. Father has a Masters in Russian History from the University of Florida and has studied in Russia. These films will be shown in the parish hall at St. Athanasius Orthodox Church at 926 South Main Street starting at 7:30pm. For more more information call the church office at 859-881-8144.