Stigmata [1999] {Movie Review}

Dir: Rupert Wainwright
Starring: Patricia Arquette, Gabriel Byrne
Dur: 1 hr 37 mins
Genre: Thriller
PG: A few smooches and foul language. 
Rating: 6.5/10
The occurrence of stigmata is something that has always fascinated me and I suppose it has also fascinated many within the church. St Francis of Assisi was the first known stigmatist. Since then numerous people have claimed to have received the stigmata and the Church has been rather careful in accepting their claims. This is a story that stands by its name and does so in a pretty dramatic manner.

We follow Fr Andrew Kierman {Gabriel Byrne} a priest and scientist who is entrusted with the task of investigating a case of stigmata in Pennsylvania. The subject is a young and wayward girl who accidently came in possession of a relic of a stigmatist whose spirit consequently entered her. The what and how of stigmata is hardly given any explanation but the manifestation of it is shown rather clearly and graphically.


The story has certain elements of controversy but is nevertheless very well told. The underside of the church is flashed and covered up equally quick. People of faith may find this disturbing as there are certain scenes like a priest and a girl smooching, a priest and a cardinal nearly throwing fists at each other and a cardinal on the verge of committing murder. If you have the stomach for a graphical drama and the steadfastness to handle controversy you might enjoy this. If you don’t it’s best you don’t upset yourself with this movie.    

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