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A young nun is found in a convent to have given birth and then strangled the baby. An investigation ensues, but only seems to unearth more and more perplexing twists. There is very little theology here and approaches it's subject matter in a very matter of fact way. It has the mindset that the majority of the viewers are non- religious or disgruntled ex-catholics. It portrays the church as a stubborn, age old institution that is slowly losing touch with our more modern sensibilities. Yet, refreshingly, it also doesn't try to tear down the church with every chance it gets. There is a certain level of respect and objectivity here. The mother superior (Bancroft) is shown to be very human and multi-faceted. Her and Fonda make interesting adversaries. Their love-hate relationship is both interesting and enlightening. There is even a rare scene showing an excited young women being inducted into the sisterhood as her proud family looks on. Fonda, with her liberated, modern women persona, seems a very obvious choice to play the no nonsense psychiatrist. She approaches the role with conviction, but her constant chain smoking seems affected and her emotionlism overwrought. I still say she is much better suited for comedy. (CAT BALLOU, NINE TO FIVE). Bancroft is solid as usual. Yet it's Tilly that is really impressive. She portrays the innocence of her character with a incredible clarity. It is almost astounding. The mystery unravels well and keeps you intrigued. Yet the ambiguous conclusion is a bit disappointing. The drama side fares better. It poses a few good insights and ends with a interesting perspective. The film is well done on all levels even though there is really nothing that memorable or distinctive to it (outside of Tilly's compelling performance.)
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