10 Must-Watch Monastery Dramas

Description: Based on the true story of Bernadette Soubirous, this film depicts her visions of the Virgin Mary and the subsequent establishment of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Fact: Jennifer Jones won the Academy Award for Best Actress for her portrayal of Bernadette, and the film also won three other Oscars.

Description: Set in the Himalayas, this film explores the psychological and emotional turmoil of a group of Anglican nuns as they attempt to establish a school and hospital in an abandoned palace.

Fact: The film was shot entirely in England, with the use of matte paintings and miniatures to create the illusion of the Himalayan setting. It won two Academy Awards for Best Cinematography and Best Art Direction.

Description: While not strictly about a monastery, this film follows a father who walks the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route after his son's death, encountering various spiritual and personal challenges along the way.

Fact: Emilio Estevez wrote, directed, and starred in this film, which was inspired by his own experiences on the Camino.

Description: A dark tale of a monk's descent into madness and sin, this film explores themes of temptation, hypocrisy, and the struggle between good and evil within a monastic setting.

Fact: The film is based on Matthew Gregory Lewis's 1796 Gothic novel of the same name. It was adapted for the screen by Dominik Moll.

Description: Although not set in a monastery, this silent film captures the spiritual intensity of Joan of Arc's trial, reflecting the monastic themes of faith, sacrifice, and divine calling.

Fact: The film is known for its close-up shots and the intense performance by Renée Jeanne Falconetti, which is often cited as one of the greatest in cinema history.

Description: This heartwarming sequel to "Going My Way" focuses on the relationship between a progressive priest and a traditional nun as they work together to save their school.

Fact: Bing Crosby reprised his role as Father O'Malley, and the film was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture.

Description: This classic film follows the journey of a young Belgian woman who becomes a nun, only to face the harsh realities of convent life and the conflict between her vows and her personal beliefs.

Fact: Audrey Hepburn received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actress for her role as Sister Luke. The film was also nominated for eight Oscars in total.

Description: Set in a 14th-century Italian monastery, this film involves a Franciscan friar investigating a series of mysterious deaths, uncovering secrets and theological debates.

Fact: Sean Connery stars as William of Baskerville, and the film is based on Umberto Eco's novel, which explores themes of knowledge, power, and the clash between reason and faith.

Description: This film sheds light on the harsh realities of the Magdalene Asylums in Ireland, where young women were sent for perceived moral failings, often against their will.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life accounts and received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the oppressive conditions within these institutions.

Description: This French film recounts the true story of a group of Trappist monks in Algeria who face a moral dilemma when threatened by Islamic fundamentalists.

Fact: The film won the Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival and was praised for its respectful and nuanced portrayal of faith and community.