Catholicism and current movies

There seems to be a spate of Catholic-themed films (or at least with strong Catholic elements) in theaters now. Unfortunately, two of them are smaller, independent films that may not make it to the Springs (but will likely get a screening in Denver). Here's a quick rundown...

1. Breach -- this film has been out for a little while and won't be in the theaters much longer. It's about Robert Hanssen, the worst spy in American history whose other life was as a devout, traditional Catholic husband and father of six children. The film is from the perspective of the young FBI agent wannabe (and lapsed Catholic) who is assigned to shadow Hanssen. I'd be interested in your thoughts on the portrayal of Catholicism. At times they seemed to portray his traditional faith (and love of Opus Dei) as creepy and cultish, and other times it served to show just how much a division there was in him. Perhaps his ultra devotion to the faith was a response to the extreme life of betrayal of his country and family that he led on the side.

2. Beyond the Gates -- This sounds excellent, although the Web site is currently not showing any Colorado Springs or Denver screening dates. Very high praise from Catholic News Service:

"Beyond the Gates" (IFC) towers above most current films, with even the more worthy ones seeming like fluff in comparison. It's a gripping film about one of recent history's most regrettable episodes: the international community's failure to come to the aid of the thousands of men, women and children who lost their lives during the Rwandan genocide. The Catholic element here is strong.

Father Christopher believes in saying Mass no matter what the outside danger, and throughout, is shown carefully explaining the significance of Catholic doctrine and rituals. Despite a short-lived despair, stemming from his helplessness at the violence he's powerless to alleviate, his character is one of the most positive cinematic depictions of a priest in recent memory.

(William) Hurt -- in real life, a clergyman's son and monk's brother -- gives a wonderfully committed and believable performance, and (Hugh) Dancy -- currently winning raves on Broadway for his terrific performance in the classic World War I drama "Journey's End" -- convincingly conveys the growing horror and his illusionment of his character.

3. Into Great Silence -- This looks fascinating and is a documentary made by a filmmaker who lived for six months in almost complete silence at a Carthusian monastery in France. It is not scheduled for a Colorado Springs screening but will show at Chez Artiste in Denver beginning May 18. Again, from CNS...

Groning's respectful, no-frills approach utilizes no narration or background music. Yet, the soundtrack is far from silent. The sounds of bells chiming, wood being sawed, footsteps falling on long corridors, Gregorian chants and the like are ever-present.

The film begins with a monk praying intently in his cell. From there, other monks and activities are observed, albeit from a careful distance. We see them performing their daily ablutions, sweeping the floor, shoveling snow, watering plants, cutting fabric for clothes, all without speaking, though there is not an absolute vow of silence there.

Many will find the film's austerity and nearly three-hour length overly demanding, but for those viewers willing to give themselves up to it, they'll be rewarded with a rich cinematic and spiritual experience.

There is also a restored, remastered version of the classic "Becket" making rare theatrical screenings around the country, but the screening schedule has been hard to find online. I did not find any Colorado Springs screenings, but I did find a run beginning April 13 at Tamarac Square Cinemas in Denver. DVD release is tentatively set for May 15.

Any current film recommendations on your end?