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36 of 36 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Beautiful and Complex, March 16, 2002
By A Customer
On repeated watchings, this film reveals ever greater levels of complexity, and has become one of my very favorites. Both highly cerebral and deeply devotional, it probes a myriad of philosophical, political and theological questions through searching discussions between its two protagonists (the very sweet and holy Monsignor Quixote, played with obvious affection by Sir Alec Guinness, and his atheistic, communist pal Sancho, portrayed by wonderful veteran actor Leo McKern), and the adventures they encounter on their road trip through contemporary Spain. This film is so intelligent it's almost a miracle it was made at all. It's literate, sensitive and unapologetically religious (practically taboo in movies these days), all cradled in a lovely soundtrack which is at once playful and remarkably poignant. A high point here is an exquisite performance by a young Valentine Pelka as the haughty, steely-eyed Father Hererra, the replacement in whose heartlessness Quixote must leave his beloved little village in his absence. Pelka - a Shakespearean with a long list of film and stage credits - may be the greatest "unkown" actor alive. Do yourself a favor and view some of his other work, some of which is available through this site.
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16 of 16 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
the artistry of the author and the actors..., March 3, 2004
Monsignor Quixote the movie enchanted me when I saw it the first time. With each viewing I love it more. The characters wonderfully depict people we might meet in each of our lives. Sir Alec gives a beautiful performance of the innocent and devoted soul often hidden deep within us, while McKern depicts a more worldly, cynical and earthy person. But Monsignor Quixote's naivete contains kernels of wit and a practical humanity as well. Their friendship and dialog is touching and uplifting. This is a satisfyingly complex and intellectual story, but there are some very funny incidents too, in the gentle meandering of the tale, which keep me coming back again and again. (I wish it were also available on DVD, I am wearing out my vhs copy.)
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15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
one of the few successful filmings of a novel, May 9, 1999
By A Customer
Graham Greene's novel about a simple spanish priest in the countryside who finds himself surprisingly promoted to the rank of a monsingnore and his friendship to the communist mayor of his village is a masterpiece. Alec Guinnes and Leo McKern give live to this two elderly men, who are close friends despite of thei antagonistic view of politics. A marvellous, warmhearted movie, a highlight of the art of filming and acting.
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