Watch St. Augustine: Son of Her Tears

St. Augustine: Son of Her Tears is a captivating historical drama that takes audiences on a journey back to ancient times, exploring the life and struggles of St. Augustine, one of Christianity's most influential figures. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Imed Benchenni, and featuring a talented ensemble cast including Bahia Rachedi, Naila Ben Abdallah, Aicha Ben Ahmed, Ahmed Amin Ben Saad, and Sandra Chihaoui, this film brings a compelling tale to the screen.

Set in the 4th century AD, St. Augustine: Son of Her Tears portrays the life of a young Augustine in his hometown of Taghaste, Numidia (modern-day Souk Ahras, Algeria). From his early years, we witness his keen intellect, his questioning nature, and his relentless pursuit of knowledge, which eventually leads him on a path towards faith and spirituality.

The film begins with an introduction to Augustine's mother, Monica (played by Bahia Rachedi), a devout Christian whose unwavering faith becomes a strong presence throughout the narrative. Monica's hopes and dreams for her son's future are beautifully portrayed, as she hopes for him to follow a path of righteousness and salvation.

As Augustine grows older (portrayed by Naila Ben Abdallah), he navigates the conflicting realities of Roman-dominated North Africa, where various religious beliefs coexist and tensions run high. The film does a remarkable job of capturing the socio-political climate of the time, showing the influence of the Roman Empire and the polytheistic practices prevalent in the region.

Through encounters with various philosophical and religious ideologies, Augustine's thirst for truth and his search for a meaningful existence take center stage. The film showcases his interactions with influential thinkers of the time, such as Manichaeism, Neoplatonism, and various Christian sects, each leaving its mark on his intellectual journey.

St. Augustine: Son of Her Tears also delves into the personal struggles of Augustine, as he wrestles with his own desires, temptations, and inner conflicts. The film highlights his relationship with his concubine Alypius (played by Aicha Ben Ahmed) and their tumultuous journey together. This aspect of Augustine's life adds depth to his character and showcases his ongoing struggle between the worldly pleasures and his pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.

Amidst these personal dilemmas, Augustine's relationship with his mother remains a pillar of emotional support and guidance. Monica's portrayal by Bahia Rachedi is compelling and heartwarming, as she navigates the trials of her son's choices and ultimately becomes a symbol of faith and perseverance.

As the story progresses, St. Augustine: Son of Her Tears takes us on a transformative journey, portraying Augustine's gradual conversion to Christianity and his eventual rise as one of the most influential theologians in history. The film beautifully captures the essence of his seminal work, "Confessions," through intimate moments of self-reflection and spiritual introspection.

Imed Benchenni's direction shines throughout the movie, capturing the vibrant landscapes of North Africa and creating a visually stunning backdrop for this captivating story. The cinematography brings authenticity and beauty to the narrative, enhancing the emotional depth of the characters and their surroundings.

St. Augustine: Son of Her Tears is a powerful and thought-provoking film that appeals to both believers and non-believers alike. It explores themes of faith, redemption, love, and the eternal human quest for meaning, making it a truly compelling cinematic experience. With exceptional performances, breathtaking visuals, and a compelling screenplay, this film delivers a poignant portrayal of one of history's most fascinating figures and leaves a lasting impression on its audience.

St. Augustine: Son of Her Tears is a 2020 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes.