Watch Saint Rita of Cascia

Saint Rita of Cascia is a biographical film about the life of Saint Rita, one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic Church. This movie was released in 2005 and directed by Bob Lord and Penny Lord. The film portrays the story of Saint Rita in a classic style, depicting her life in a linear narrative, from her childhood to her death.

The story begins with Rita Lotti, a young girl who lives in Cascia, Italy, in the late 14th century. Rita's parents want her to marry a wealthy man, but she has other ideas. She decides to join a convent and devotes herself to God. However, due to political and social unrest, the convent is disbanded. Rita, now in her 30s, returns to her family and marries a cruel and abusive man named Paolo Mancini.

Despite her husband's cruelty, Rita remains faithful to God and tries to influence her husband to change his ways. Paolo eventually turns away from his violent ways and reconciles with his wife. However, he is killed by his enemies, leaving Rita a widow with two sons.

After the death of her husband, Rita joins a convent and dedicates herself to prayer and contemplation. She receives the stigmata, a phenomenon where she experiences the wounds of Christ on her own body. This event was miraculous and strengthened her faith in God.

The film highlights Saint Rita's life as a peacemaker, as she helps to prevent a war between two feuding families in Cascia. Her reputation for bringing peace and harmony earned her the nickname "The Peacemaker."

The movie also portrays several miracles attributed to Saint Rita during her lifetime, such as the healing of her cousin's illness and the bringing of a rose garden to bloom during the winter season. These miracles help to solidify her status as a saint in the eyes of the Catholic Church.

The movie features solid performances by the entire cast, with Vittoria Belvedere delivering a standout portrayal of Saint Rita. The cinematography is also impressive, showcasing the beautiful landscapes of Italy and giving the film a sense of authenticity and historical accuracy.

Overall, Saint Rita of Cascia is a well-produced and engaging film that captures the spirit and legacy of one of the most popular saints in Catholicism. The movie provides insight into the life of a woman who overcame adversity to become a beacon of hope and inspiration to millions of people around the world. It is a story of faith, perseverance, and love that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.

Saint Rita of Cascia is a 2011 documentary with a runtime of 28 minutes.