Conceived and executed in much the same visual manner as his ultra-popular
ROMEO AND JULIET (1968), Franco Zeffirelli's BROTHER SUN SISTER MOON attempts to draw parallels between the work and philosophy of St. Francis
and the ideology that underpinned the worldwide hippie movement throughout
the 1960s and early '70s. Zeffirelli's signature lush photography and use of
real architecture and settings enhances the story of this great historical
figure, played by young British newcomer Graham Faulkner.
Francesco, the spoiled son of a wealthy merchant, renounces all his worldly
possessions to live a simple life as a man of God. Much to the dismay of the local bishop, he gradually gains a large following. The cinematography, editing, and a romantic soundtrack by the Scottish singer-songwriter Donovan, reinforce the healing and influential effect St. Francis had on his followers. The script contrasts Francis's piety and virtue with the bloated pomp of official Church doctrine, which is weighed down by internal politics. The film derives much of its strength from Faulkner as the young, battle-scarred nobleman laid low by his wartime experiences, who emerges from the horrors of conflict with a completely new and spiritual outlook
on life. The film features a cast of gifted newcomers and screen veterans, including Judi Bowker (one of the most beautiful actresses of her generation), Leigh Lawson, Kenneth Cranham, Valentina Cortese, and Alec Guinness. With its distinctly counter-cultural feel, this unique film deserves to be treasured for its message of love and its cinematic beauty.
Leave it to director Franco Zeffirelli (ROMEO AND JULIET, JESUS OF NAZARETH) to successfully pull off an unusual blend of period religious history and 1960s flower power in this chronicle of the illumination of Francis of Assisi. The story follows young Francesco (Graham Faulkner) as he emerges from post-war trauma, renounces all worldly possessions, and attains enlightenment as a simple monk. His materialist father wants him to go into his textile business, but local beauty Claire (Judy Bowker) understands Francesco's preference for dallying amid the fields of flowers. They start their own church and gradually attract a large following, arousing the ire of the local bishop who sends soldiers to shut them down. Puzzled by such hypocrisy, Francesco walks barefoot all the way to the Vatican for a climactic confrontation with the Pope (Alec Guinness). It's beautifully photographed, with a lovely soundtrack of Donovan songs lending gentle accompaniment.
Theatrical release: December 2, 1972
BROTHER SUN, SISTER MOON was filmed in Italy.
The ancient melodies arranged by Donovan were researched by music scholar Alfredo Bianchini.
The alternative Italian version (FRATELLO SOLE SORELLA LUNA) runs approximately 14 minutes longer and replaces Donovan's music with a fully orchestral score by Riz Ortolani.
Editor Mills produced a 16mm documentary entitled FRANCO ZEFFIRELLI A FLORENTINE ARTIST (1973), compiled from footage shot during the making of the movie, featuring a lengthy interview with the director himself.
DVD Features:
Region 1
NTSC
Keep Case
Anamorphic Widescreen - 1.78
Audio:
Dolby Digital Mono - English, French
Subtitles - English - Optional
Interactive Features:
Scene Access
Interactive Menus
Associate Producer
Dyson Lovell: Producer/Executive
Supervising Editor
Reginald Mills: Editor/Sound
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