Benedetta

A monkish hush settles over a convent in 17th century Italy as Benedetta, a young nun, forms a forbidden bond with a fellow novice. As their attraction grows, Benedetta finds herself drawn to a higher, dangerous energy that tests the boundaries of faith and authority. The tale follows how desire, power, and the strict codes of the church collide in a world where piety is a political tool as much as a spiritual vow. Benedetta’s supposed visions of sacred ecstasy ripple through the community, inviting scrutiny and fear. The pace shifts between intimate moments and austere ritual, revealing how personal longing can become a weapon or a salvation. Its rhythm blends quiet tension with sudden bursts, like a held breath.

Directed by Paul Verhoeven, Benedetta adapts Judith C Brown's historical study with screenplay by Pascal Bonitzer and David Birke. The 2021 release brings Verhoeven's sharp, provocative lens to a lush Renaissance setting, punctuated by bold performances and a dense atmosphere of power.

The film sparked debate for its frank depiction of female sexuality and its unflinching portrayal of religious power. Critics highlighted Verhoeven's visual inventiveness, the performances of Virginie Efira and Daphné Patakia, and the way the era's rigor clashes with intimate longing, ritual authority with personal rebellion, and the film's willingness to provoke.

Critics generally acknowledge its bold exploration of desire, power and faith, though some argue the provocations overwhelm nuance. Viewers are invited to reflect on how institutions policing bodies and beliefs shape personal choices under constant scrutiny, and how the line between sacred tenderness and coercive control can blur in a cramped historical world.

Box office data is not included in the provided information; the film's commercial performance remains unlisted here, making it impossible to assess its profitability or reach in different markets. Verhoeven's name often attracts attention beyond numbers, but this film's release was shaped by a selective rollout.