One-hundred and thirty years ago, the Lumière brothers presented a moving picture to an audience in Paris, France – in what would come to be regarded as one of the first times a film was presented to a paying audience –using a device of their devising: the Cinématographe. From the Lumières’ “Workers Leaving the Lumière Factory,” to Georges Méliès’ “A Trip to the Moon” (which was highly influential in cinematic circles), Alan Crosland’s “The Jazz Singer” (which was the first feature-length film to include synchronized music, singing, and speech), to more modern films, the world has come a long way since then. Film has rapidly advanced and, without hyperbole, influenced modern 14 civilization in all aspects of life.
Pope St. John Paul II agreed, recognizing the value and impact of this important medium.
Speaking in March of 1995, the Pope said that since that first public showing by the Lumière brothers in Paris, “the film industry has become a universal medium exercising a profound influence on the development of people’s attitudes and choices, and possessing a remarkable ability to influence public opinion and culture across all social and political frontiers.”
He continued: “The Church’s overall judgment of this art form, as of all genuine art, is positive and hopeful. We have seen that masterpieces of the art of film making can be moving challenges to the human spirit, capable of dealing in depth with subjects of great meaning and importance from an ethical and spiritual point of view.”
“…the film industry has become a universal medium exercising a profound influence on the development of people’s attitudes and choices…”
Later that year the Pontifical Council for Social Communications, a commission appointed by the Vatican, released a list of 45 films divided into three categories: religion, values, and art. Sent to bishops as part of a packet on film appreciation, the list – called “Alcuni Film Importanti” or “Some Important Films” – was compiled by a committee of top international film scholars under the auspices of the Commission’s leader, Archbishop John Foley.
Some Important Films was not meant to be exhaustive or even meant to establish the included films as “better” than others. Certainly, the list is not meant to be magisterial. The films included on the list are a cross-section – a representation – of influential films listed in no particular order and with the specific acknowledgment that “not all that deserve mention are included.” The list includes films that span time and subject matter.
It’s important to note, however, that just because a film appears on the list does not mean that it is theologically approved by the Vatican. Remember, the list is not magisterial. While the Vatican has taken great prudence in its discernment of film choices, if one is rigid on cultural purity or moral acceptability in the media one consumes, it can be hard to imagine why some films were even chosen.
Though some films are lighthearted with few questionable scenes, such as It’s a Wonderful Life or Little Women, others are more serious – requiring viewers to have prudence.
Within films on the list, objectionable content could include instances of violence, swearing, intense scenes, nudity, sexual content, questioning faith, and other topics which, on its face, may objectively disqualify a given film from “movie night.”
For example, Schindler’s List is an important film, often cited as one of the most important films ever made with a far reaching legacy on cinematography, culture, and history. Yet, the film includes nudity, sexual content, and violence. But no one would consider the film pornographic or a “slasher.” However, it is certainly not for children.
Another example from the list is the Kubrick classic, 2001: A Space Odyssey. Often heralded as one of the greatest and most influential films ever made, it is a master class in innovative filmmaking and its influence, particularly in the science fiction genre, is immense. Yet, Kubrick himself was an atheist who says an abstract “God concept” was central to the film – a God in no way congruent with the Catholic faith. But many, including influential Catholics, have found symbolism and meaning within 2001’s 139 minute run time.
The name of the game is prudence. Remember, the list is not magisterial.
The included films are meant to guide people into a sense of wonder and appreciation of “the cinema” as an artistic medium that can teach – along with strong faith and discernment – about the spiritual, the moral, and the human experience.
Catholic film critic Steven Greydanus explains it like this in a 2004 article from Catholic Answers: “In honoring certain difficult and challenging works, the Vatican means for viewers to watch these films in a mature and judicious spirit, not passively imbibing everything for entertainment’s sake but evaluating what they see and hear in light of the fullness of Catholic teaching.”
While the movies are not all morally “perfect,” it can be said that they are restrained – especially when compared to other films around similar topics or time periods. As with most media, it is up to the viewer to contemplate what they consume through the lens of faith. Because it is in this exploration that one learns the most.
As Pope St. John Paul II said in his Letter to Artists in 1999, “Even when they explore the darkest depths of the soul or the most unsettling aspects of evil, artists give voice in a way to the universal desire for redemption.”
“Some Important Films”
RELIGION
Andrei Rublev (1969)
This film follows the life of the 15th-century Russian icon painter Andrei Rublev, highlighting his struggles as a devout man, artistic expression, and the violence of Russia.
Babette’s Feast (1988)
A French refugee impacts two pious sisters and a Danish community through a lavish feast, leading to a transformation in their lives.
Ben-Hur (1959)
A Jewish prince is betrayed and enslaved by his Roman childhood friend, but while on a quest for revenge, his path intersects with that of Jesus Christ.
The Flowers of St. Francis (1950)
The film presents the humble and spiritual life of St. Francis and his followers, showing their devotion to poverty and simplicity in medieval Italy.
Francesco (1989)
Focusing on the life of St. Francis of Assisi, this film depicts his transformation from a wealthy young man to a devoted spiritual leader, embracing poverty and faith.
The Gospel According to St. Matthew (1966)
This straightforward Italian film tells the story of the life of Jesus from the perspective of the Apostle Matthew, shooting directly from the text without changing or adding, the film presenting a gritty, minimalistic portrayal.
La Passion de Notre Seigneur Jesus- Christ (1905)
One of the earliest cinematic depictions of Christ’s Passion and directed by a man known for crime dramas, this French film presents the events leading to the crucifixion in stark, dramatic imagery.
A Man for All Seasons (1966)
The film tells the story of the last seven years in the life of St. Thomas More, who defies King Henry VIII’s demand to annul his marriage, choosing to stay true to his faith.
The Mission (1986)
Set in 18th-century South America, a Jesuit missionary and a mercenary struggle to protect a native tribe from colonial exploitation, with themes of faith, sociopolitical dimensions, duty, and sacrifice.
Monsieur Vincent (1947)
This film depicts the life of St. Vincent de Paul, focusing on his mission to care for the poor and oppressed in 17th-century France.
Nazarin (1958)
The story of a Catholic priest in rural Mexico who tries to live a life of absolute poverty and compassion while confronting the hypocrisy and corruption of society and his leaders.
Ordet (1954)
A family in rural Denmark is torn by faith and disbelief after a son proclaims himself to be Jesus. The limits of their religious convictions and understanding is tested.
The Passion of Joan of Arc (1928)
This silent film focuses on Joan of Arc’s trial and execution, emphasizing her unwavering faith in the face of betrayal and death.
The Sacrifice (1986)
In this film, a man attempts to bargain with God to prevent a global nuclear catastrophe. This film explores deep themes of faith, the human condition, love, and compassion.
Therese (1986)
The film follows the life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, focusing on her simple joy, dedication to prayer, and love for God in her brief life as a Carmelite nun.
VALUES
Au Revoir les Enfants (1988)
A young boy forms a friendship with a new student at a Catholic school in Nazi-occupied France, unaware of the boy’s secret identity as a Jewish refugee.
The Bicycle Thief (1949)
In post-WWII Rome, a man desperately searches for his stolen bicycle highlighting the struggles of the poor and the harshness of society as he and his son search for his bicycle as the story comes full circle.
The Burmese Harp (1956)
After World War II, a Japanese soldier is nursed back to health by a Buddhist monk and seeks redemption in Burma by performing funerals for the dead.
Chariots of Fire (1981)
Two British athletes overcome personal struggles and societal pressures as they race for glory in the 1924 Olympics, driven by faith and determination.
Decalogue (1988)
This ten-part series, inspired by the Ten Commandments, explores contemporary moral dilemmas and the complexities of human life in a modern Poland apartment complex.
Dersu Uzala (1978)
A Russian explorer and a native Siberian guide form an unlikely friendship, showing the contrasting worlds of modern civilization and untouched nature.
Gandhi (1982)
The film chronicles the life of Mahatma Gandhi, focusing on his nonviolent resistance to British rule in India and his dedication to social justice and human rights.
Intolerance (1916)
This complex epic, connected by a woman rocking a cradle, interweaves four stories from different historical periods, examining the destructive impact of intolerance across time and cultures.
It’s a Wonderful Life (1946)
A man on the brink of suicide is shown by an angel how his life has positively impacted others, leading to a realization of the value of his own existence.
On the Waterfront (1954)
A former boxer struggles with his conscience after witnessing corruption on the docks, exploring themes of guilt, morality, and personal redemption.
Open City (1945)
With filming happening while German troops were still in the city, this film, set during the Nazi occupation of Rome, follows a group of resistance fighters and ordinary citizens as they struggle for survival and justice in a war-torn city.
Schindler’s List (1993)
The story of Oskar Schindler, a German businessman who saves the lives of over a thousand Jews during the Holocaust.
The Seventh Seal (1956)
A medieval knight, returning from the Crusades, plays a game of chess with Death, grappling with existential questions about life, faith, and mortality.
The Tree of Wooden Clogs (1978)
The film portrays the lives of peasant families in rural Italy during the late 19th century, focusing on their daily struggles and their efforts to maintain dignity despite hardship.
Wild Strawberries (1958)
An elderly doctor reflects in dreams about his life and relationships while traveling to receive an honorary degree, confronting his regrets and spiritual growth along the way.
ART
Citizen Kane (1941)
A wealthy publishing tycoon’s life is examined through flashbacks after his death to try to identify the meaning of his last word, “rosebud.” The film explores the complexities of ambition, power, and the search for meaning.
8 1/2 (1963)
A filmmaker struggles with a creative block as he attempts to balance his personal life and artistic vision, leading to surreal dream sequences that blur the line between reality and fantasy.
Fantasia (1940)
This Walt Disney animated film combines classical music with vivid imagery, featuring segments that explore various themes, from magical adventures to nature’s wonders.
Grand Illusion (1937)
During World War I, a group of French soldiers are captured by the Germans. The film focuses on their bonds of friendship and the futility of war’s national divides.
La Strada (1956)
A young woman is sold to a traveling circus strongman. The film explores themes of exploitation, loneliness, and the search for meaning as she tries to find a better life.
The Lavender Hill Mob (1951)
A mild-mannered bank clerk masterminds a gold robbery, using his knowledge of the banking system to pull off the heist with unexpected humor and clever twists. A comedy classic.
The Leopard (1963)
Set in 19th-century Sicily, the film tells the story of an aristocratic family as they face societal changes brought on by the unification of Italy, focusing on themes of power and legacy.
Little Women (1933)
The March sisters grow up during the American Civil War, each facing their own challenges, but coming together through love, loss, and personal growth.
Metropolis (1926)
In a futuristic city of stark class divides, the film tells the story of a worker’s revolt against the elite, blending expressionist visuals with themes of industrialization and class struggle.
Modern Times (1936)
Charlie Chaplin’s character, the Tramp, struggles to survive in a modern industrialized world, satirizing the dehumanizing effects of mechanization and the Great Depression.
Napoleon (1927)
This silent epic chronicles the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, from his early military campaigns to his coronation as emperor, using innovative cinematic techniques to depict historical events.
Nosferatu (1922)
A silent film adaptation of Dracula, Nosferatu tells the eerie story of a vampire’s obsession with a woman, marked by its chilling imagery and atmospheric horror.
Stagecoach (1939)
A diverse group of travelers on a dangerous journey through the American West must confront their personal demons and survive the threats of outlaws.
2001: A Space Odyssey (1968)
This sci-fi epic explores humanity’s evolution, artificial intelligence, and the vast unknowns of space, culminating in a philosophical exploration of existence.
The Wizard of Oz (1939)
A young girl is swept away to a magical land, where she embarks on a quest to return home, meeting memorable characters and learning valuable lessons about courage, friendship, and home. ■
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