Director: Dominik Moll
Starring: Vincent Cassel, Déborah François, Joséphine Japy and Sergi Lopez
Running Time: 101 mins
Certificate: 15
Synopsis: Abandoned at birth and raised in a monastery, Ambrosio (Cassel) soon becomes a well-respected monk himself; admired far and wide for his relentless adherence to the rules of the order, and oratorial skills. However, an ever-darkening shadow is soon cast over him, and as he struggles to maintain his virtuous ways, his sanctity begins to give way to fear and desire…
This adaptation of the eponymous novel by Matthew Gregory Lewis, is a well-honed, character-driven thriller, which examines the hypocritical nature of organised religion through its protagonist, Ambrosio. However, there is a discernible reticence pervading the narrative that detracts from the overall effect of the film.
This restraint comes in the form of Ambrosio’s inner workings, and their relation to his fall from grace. In the source material, he knows he is a troubled man with dark desires and hides behind his reputation, but in Moll’s interpretation, he is more of a tragic character, who is fooled by a confusing world, and is almost as much a victim as he is a perpetrator of evil deeds. The former seems to be a more pertinent and far less idealistic choice than the latter, and could arguably have solicited a more nuanced character within a more rousing story arc.
The film does not shy away from these controversial themes, but it does tone them down and deal with them in a diplomatic way, which, to a certain extent, panders to those who favour censorship over dangerous excitement (something the Catholic Church are famed for). This renders Ambrosio a more sympathetic creation, but unfortunately dampens the intensity and perceptiveness of the original character.
Nonetheless, Vincent Cassel’s performance is engrossing. His subtle mannerisms and powerful – but controlled – emotions reel you in and ignite your curiosity almost instantly. This, coupled with Moll’s gothic style and harshly contrasting lighting (reflecting Ambrosio’s inner conflict) do have an exhilarating effect, which is enhanced by Alberto Iglesias’ thumpingly invasive score. This aural and visual assault forces you to delve deeper into the intoxicated mind of Ambrosio, as he descends into madness.
It is refreshing to see a film that analyses the self righteousness and oppressive nature of religion, and has a fallible ‘holy man’ as its main character, but THE MONK is a tale of man’s struggle with morality that has been told before, and told well. Moll and Cassel’s interpretation is sound and engaging, but because the story is predictable, and nothing on offer would be considered sensational, shocking or explicit in modern times, something more innovative is needed to elevate it to a ‘must-see’ status.
THE MONK will be in UK cinemas 27th April.
