Le monache di Sant'Arcangelo (1973)
Release Year: 1973
Alternative Title: The Nuns of Sant' Arcangelo, A Monja e o Demônio, St. Arcangelon nunnat, Pyhän luostarin nunnat, Les religieuses du Saint Archange, Die Nonne von Verona, To monastiri ton amartolon gynaikon, The Nun and the Devil, 修道女ジュリアの告白/中世尼僧刑罰史, De nonnen van Sant Arcangelo, As Freiras de Santo Arcângelo, As Freiras de Sto. Arcangelo, Angelske nune, Escándalo en el convento, Saint Archangel'in Rahibeleri, Innocents from Hell, Sisters of Satan, The Nuns of Saint Archangel
Director: Domenico Paolella
Writer: Domenico Paolella, Stendhal, Tonino Cervi
Production & Genre
Producer(s):
Companies: N/A
Genre: Drama, Erotic Film, Horror, Lgbt-Related Film, Satanic Film
Story
Set in the Kingdom of Naples during the reign of torture and witch hunts authorized by the Roman Inquisition in 1577, 'Le monache di Sant'Arcangelo' revolves around the convent of Sant'Arcangelo di Baiano. The Spanish nobleman Don Carlos frequents this convent to satisfy his erotic desires with Sister Giulia di Mondragone, who aspires to become its abbess. However, she is a lesbian secretly in love with Sister Chiara and has an aunt, Sister Isabella, who is forced into taking monastic vows despite being deeply in love with a peasant boy. As the current abbess, Sister Lavinia, nears death, a power struggle ensues between Giulia and Sister Carmela, also aspiring for the title of abbess. This rivalry escalates from jealousy to poisoning, traps, anonymous letters, and false accusations, ultimately leading to a trial by the Inquisition's representative, Vicar Carafa. The ruthless process involves torture and confessions from various sisters.
Summary
Domenico Paolella's 'Le monache di Sant'Arcangelo' (1973) is an Italian erotic thriller set against the backdrop of religious fervor and political intrigue during the Spanish Inquisition in Naples. The film explores themes of power, lust, jealousy, and corruption within a convent, as well as the persecution of women during this period. It stands out for its exploration of lesbian relationships amidst a predominantly male-dominated society, providing a rare glimpse into female sexuality and desire within historical contexts.
.jpg)
