Watch Assisi in Silence

Assisi in Silence is a meditative documentary film about the life and teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, one of the most revered figures in Christianity. Directed by Tommaso Cammarano and Matteo Collura, the film takes the audience on a journey through the picturesque town of Assisi, where St. Francis was born and lived most of his life.

The film begins with stunning aerial shots of the hills and valleys surrounding Assisi, which are accompanied by a soothing soundtrack of chants and hymns. These initial moments establish the contemplative tone of the movie, inviting the audience to slow down and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.

As the camera pans down to the town, we see the narrow alleys, stone walls, and ancient buildings that make up Assisi's historic center. The filmmakers use a mix of drone shots, time-lapse photography, and slow-motion footage to showcase the town's architectural and natural gems, from the Basilica of St. Francis to the olive groves and vineyards that surround it.

Throughout the film, we hear the voice of Fr. Richard Rohr, a Franciscan friar and popular author, who provides insights into the life and legacy of St. Francis. Fr. Rohr's narration is thoughtful and poetic, weaving together historical facts, spiritual concepts, and personal anecdotes. His words convey a deep reverence for St. Francis and his message of simplicity, humility, and compassion.

As Fr. Rohr traces the key moments in St. Francis's life, we see reenactments of some of his most famous deeds, such as his encounter with the leper, his renunciation of his wealth and status, and his sermon to the birds. These scenes are shot with a naturalistic style, without dialogues or music, letting the visuals and the story speak for themselves.

Mixed with the dramatizations are interviews with contemporary figures who have been inspired and influenced by St. Francis. These include theologians, artists, environmentalists, and common people who have sought to follow in his footsteps. Their testimonies reflect the wide-ranging impact that St. Francis has had on different fields of human endeavor, from ecology to peacebuilding to interfaith dialogue.

One of the most striking aspects of Assisi in Silence is its use of silence itself. The filmmakers allow several minutes of complete stillness and quietness, with no voiceover, music, or sound effects. These moments create a space for reflection and introspection, inviting the viewer to connect with their own spiritual longings and questions.

At times, the film verges on hagiography, presenting St. Francis as a flawless and saintly figure. However, it also acknowledges some of the challenges and controversies that surrounded him, such as his difficult relationship with the Church hierarchy, his radical views on poverty and social justice, and his physical and emotional struggles.

Assisi in Silence ends with a visit to the Porziuncola, the small chapel where St. Francis received his vocation and where he died. The filmmakers capture the serene atmosphere of the place, as pilgrims and tourists light candles, pray, and contemplate the frescoes that depict the life of the saint. Fr. Rohr's final reflections summarize the film's message of hope and renewal, inviting the audience to apply St. Francis's example to their own lives and to the world at large.

In sum, Assisi in Silence is a visually stunning and spiritually uplifting documentary that offers a fresh perspective on a timeless figure. It combines artistry, scholarship, and contemplation in a seamless way, inviting the viewer to slow down, breathe, and marvel at the wonders of creation. Whether one is a believer or not, the film has the power to awaken the soul and inspire a deeper sense of connection to oneself, to others, and to the divine.

Assisi in Silence is a documentary with a runtime of 36 minutes.