Watch The Song of Bernadette

The Song of Bernadette is a 1943 drama film based on the novel of the same name by Franz Werfel. The movie tells the story of Bernadette Soubirous, the young French girl who experienced apparitions of the Virgin Mary in the town of Lourdes in 1858. The movie begins with the introduction of Bernadette Soubirous, portrayed by Jennifer Jones, who works as a miller's daughter in poverty-stricken Lourdes. One day, while collecting firewood, Bernadette has a vision of a beautiful lady in a grotto near the river. She returns to the grotto several times, and each time the vision of the lady grows stronger. Word of her miracle spreads through Lourdes, and soon Bernadette's visions result in a mass gathering of people in the town.

Bernadette is quickly met with disbelief from the townspeople, including the mayor of Lourdes, played by Charles Bickford. However, the town's priest, Father Peyramale, played by Vincent Price, believes she is genuine and begins to investigate her story. It is revealed that Bernadette's mother has been suffering from a debilitating illness, and Bernadette's vision of the lady gave her mother the strength to fight her condition. This belief only helps to strengthen the town's faith in Bernadette's visions.

Throughout the movie, Bernadette is met with skepticism, ridicule, and even hostility from the townspeople. Nevertheless, she remains steadfast in her devotion to the lady and endures suffering and ridicule with quiet dignity. The movie explores themes of faith, perseverance, and the power of belief. The character of Bernadette is portrayed as a saintly figure, a humble and devoted girl who never wavers in her conviction.

The cinematography of The Song of Bernadette is breathtaking. The scenes filmed in the grotto where Bernadette has her visions are particularly stunning, with the use of light and shadow creating an ethereal and mystical atmosphere. The performances of the actors are also notable, especially Jennifer Jones' portrayal of Bernadette. She exudes a quiet strength and serenity that makes her portrayal of the character deeply moving.

One of the most poignant scenes in the movie comes near the end, when Bernadette is visited by Father Peyramale. He asks her to describe the lady she has been seeing, and she responds, "I don't have to see her, I believe in her." This scene perfectly encapsulates the themes of faith and belief that are central to the movie's story.

Overall, The Song of Bernadette is a beautiful and inspiring film about the power of faith and belief. The movie was nominated for 12 Academy Awards, winning four, including Best Actress for Jennifer Jones' performance as Bernadette. The Song of Bernadette remains a classic religious film and a testament to the enduring power of faith.

The Song of Bernadette is a 1943 drama with a runtime of 2 hours and 36 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.6.