Wizard of Heaven – Life of St. John Vianney (1949) runtime 100minutes
Director- Marcel Blistène
Cast: Georges Rollin, Marie Daëms, Dora Doll, Alfred Adam, Claire Gérard, Alexandre Rignault Jandeline, Léon Belières
“Wizard of Heaven,” is a French film, directed by Marcel Blistène, now available with English subtitles. The movie beautifully portrays the life of St. John Marie Baptist Vianney, also known as the Curé de Ars, a revered modern saint and patron of parish priests. Despite his limited intellectual abilities, Vianney’s journey to priesthood is made possible through the intervention of an influential friend with the diocesan authorities. Struggling through seminary studies, Vianney is ordained during a tumultuous period in France marked by the aftermath of the Revolution, Reign of Terror, and Napoleonic wars. Assigned to the quiet and disregarded parish of Ars, where both church and clergy face hostility, Vianney’s deep spirituality, compassionate preaching, and love for the downtrodden endear him to the people, making him a legend. Haunted by the Devil’s visits and temptations, Vianney’s unwavering dedication prevails. He earns a reputation as a healer after miraculously aiding a crippled boy and dispelling accusations of murder from a deceitful local doctor. As a confessor, he guides penitents, offering spiritual guidance and urging them to confess forgotten sins. Vianney fearlessly condemns spiritual ignorance and worldliness, even as the Devil challenges his miracles. Despite being threatened and even having his presbytery set on fire, his resolve remain unshaken. His attempt to embrace monastic life is interrupted by the fervent pleas of the community, bringing him back to Ars. Acknowledged for his contributions, Vianney receives the Legion of Honour from the French monarch, leading to the resignation of the anti-clerical mayor. The film captures the essence of a humble priest who overcame odds, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to inspire.
Little Boy (2015) Run time 106 minutes
Director: Alejandro Monteverde
Cast: Jakob Salvati Emily Watson, David Henrie, Michael Rapaport, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Tom Wilkinson, Ben Chaplin , Ted Levine
“Little Boy” (2015), is a poignant film set during World War II that touches on themes of war, racism, friendship, faith, and coming of age. Pepper, an eight-year-old boy in the peaceful village of O’Hare on the California coast, faces bullying with the nickname ‘little boy’ due to his small stature. Inspired by magician Ben Eagle, Pepper discovers his self confidence when he believes he can move objects with his mind. This newfound faith in magic becomes intertwined with his understanding of miracles. As the war intensifies, Pepper’s family is affected – his father joins the military, and his brother faces imprisonment. Inspired by Vicar Fr Oliver’s homily, Pepper attempts to move mountains with his mustard seed-sized faith to bring his father back. He embarks on acts of mercy, including befriending Hashimoto, a victim of racism, and performing charitable deeds. Pepper’s conviction in moving mountains takes a literal turn, as he triggers a seismic event that changes the landscape. His prayers coincide with the news of the atomic bomb named ‘Little Boy,’ which ends the war but also claims his father’s life. In a twist of fate, Pepper’s unwavering faith is ultimately rewarded, underscoring the film’s exploration of love, belief, and the unexpected ways in which miracles can unfold.
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