Adapted from the eponymous cult classic Gothic novel by Mathew Gregory Lewis published in 1796, the rise and fall of a Capuchin Monk in 17th century Madrid. Abandoned as a baby on the steps of a monastery and raised in strict Capuchin fashion, Ambrosio has become the most famous preacher in the country. While large crowds from all over the country come to hear his mesmerizing preaches, he’s also bitterly envied for his success by certain fellow monks. Convinced of his virtue and righteousness, Brother Ambrosio thinks he is immune to temptation… Until obscure events start terrorizing the monastery. Could they be connected to the unexpected arrival of Valerio, an apprentice monk who has the miraculous gift to relieve Ambrosio’s splitting headaches and hides his disfigured face under a wax mask?
Dominik Moll (born 7 May 1962) is a German born French film director and screenwriter. He wrote and directed Harry, un ami qui vous veut du bien and Lemming. He was born in Bühl, West Germany. For his achievements on the film Harry, un ami qui vous veut du bien, he won the 2001 César Award for Best Director. Both Lemming and Harry, un ami qui vous veut du bien were nominated for the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. —Wikipedia
After two wondeful movies it seems that Moll finally suffered the slump. While The Monk carries a lot of potential it never gets off the ground in any respect. The drama feels slight and stilted, the suspense fizzles, the horror never hits home and while the ending offers some inspired imagery, this is a a quite boring miss!
“The Monk” was able to create appealing images through dim lights and sinister ambiences, but was trapped by a couple of redundant scenes. Full Review and Rating: http://alwayswatchgoodmovies.blogspot.com/2013/03/the-monk-2011.html
Gothic movie shot in the wonderful deserted Spanish landscape. Vincent Cassel challenges the Devil and is punished for that. Recommended.