Cast
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Margaret Qualley
as Sister Cathleen
Melissa Leo
as Reverend Mother
Julianne Nicholson
as Nora Harris
Dianna Agron
as Sister Mary Grace
Lisa Stewart
as Sister Genevieve
Morgan Saylor
as Sister Evelyn
Liana Liberato
as Sister Emily
Rebecca Dayan
as Sister Emanuel
Eline Powell
as Sister Candace
Chelsea Lopez
as Sister Charlotte
Maddie Hasson
as Sister Sissy
Denis O'Hare
as Archbishop
Chris Zylka
as Chuck Harris
Alyssa Brindley
as Sister Kate
Hannah Renèe Jackson
as Sister Anne
Crew
Director
- Margaret Betts
Writer
- Margaret Betts
Producer
- Carole Peterman
- Celine Rattray
- Trudie Styler
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Novitiate examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Margaret Betts brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2017, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Novitiate took approximately 28 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 123 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 183 minutes long.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 6 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 43 unique compositions.
Historical Context
- In 2017, when this film is released:
- Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Novitiate shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Midnights with Adam, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Novitiate subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Pope Joan and Afterparty explore similar territory, Novitiate stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 27, 2017
- Runtime: 2h 3m
- Revenue: $580,346
