"Of Gods and Men"

In French with excellent sub-titles, this is an inspiring portrayal of courage born of faith. Superb acting, exquisite cinematography (Caroline Champetier). Purposely, (almost excruciatingly) slow-moving, yet brilliantly paced this is a film whose every scene can be savored and appreciated. Directed by Xavier Beaufois with intelligence and sensitivity. (He also shared writing credits.) The plot (based on real events and real people)revolves around a Trappist (Cistercian) monastery in Algeria during the 1990's. It shows the army -- plus terrorists - impinging upon the peace and tranquility of the life of the monks. The monks are French by the way. They are not young. they have been in Algeria for many years. Days are spent in useful pursuits as well as devotion expressed with magnificent liturgical chanting which permeates their daily routine and rituals. The expressive faces of each of these exceptional men will be etched in your memory. As true Christians, giving medical treatment to anyone who came to them, without discrimination, the monks served the villagers -- most of whom were Muslim. The cast list is headed by Lambert Wilson and Michael Lonsdale, but every single actor is superb. FOUR STARS!