Bernadette (1988)
Directed by Jean Delannoy

Film Review

Towards the very end of his long and distinguished filmmaking career, during which he made such memorable films as Macao, l'enfer du jeu (1939), L'Éternel retour (1943) and Les Amitiés particulières (1964), director Jean Delannoy devoted himself to religious subjects. Of these, the most widely seen is Bernadette, a compelling and largely accurate account of the life of Saint Bernadette of Lourdes. In contrast to most religious films, Delannoy's approach is refreshingly direct and down-to-earth. He portrays his subject with humanity, even a touch of humour, making them accessible to believers and non-believers alike.  Interestingly, the film does not dwell on the miracle that Bernadette witnessed but instead focuses on how this event transformed her life, and also the lives of those in her community.  Whilst the film is nowhere near as impressive as some of Delannoy's earlier films, it is a considered and involving work, beautifully shot and showing a careful attention to historical detail,. Its main virtue is that it tells its story effectively, with warmth, compassion and a soupçon of irony.  Immediately after this film was completed Delannoy made another (for exclusive viewing at Lourdes) which recounted Bernadette's experiences in a convent, La Passion de Bernadette (1989).

Film Synopsis

In 1858, 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous and her family take up residence in a disused prison in the French town of Lourdes.  Her family may be poor but Bernadette is a happy child.  On a cold day in February, she is out collecting firewood with her sister Toinette and friend Baloum when a gentle breeze guides her towards a cave in the rockface.  Peering into the cave, Bernadette sees a figure bathed in an ethereal white light.  No one believes her when she recounts what she has seen.  The townsfolk jeer at her and, fearing she may be considered insane, her parents insist that she holds her tongue on the matter.  But Bernadette is drawn back to the cave, and the same divine vision comes to her many times.  Why should the Virgin Mary show herself to her?  It is a miracle that will make Bernadette famous and establish Lourdes as a place of pilgrimage for Christians from all over the world...