Citizen Saint
Citizen Saint

Movie spotlight

Citizen Saint

2023
Movie
100 min
Georgian

On the main square of a mining town stands a cross depicting a saint, regarded by the local miners as their protector. One day, the cross is taken down for repair and the statue of the saint suddenly vanishes. When a mysterious stranger subsequently appears among them, the residents put two and two together…

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes55%
Metacritic50/100
Google Users85%
Director: Kenneth A. CarlsonGenres: Drama, Biography, History

Plot Summary

Citizen Saint tells the inspiring true story of Nicholas of Myra, a young bishop in the 4th century who defied Roman law and a tyrannical governor to bring hope and justice to his impoverished people. Facing persecution and immense personal risk, Nicholas’s unwavering faith and compassion lead him to perform extraordinary acts of charity and courage. The film chronicles his journey from a devout young man to becoming a legendary figure whose spirit of giving would eventually shape traditions like Santa Claus.

Critical Reception

Citizen Saint received a mixed to positive reception from critics and audiences, with many praising its heartfelt performance and inspirational message. Some reviewers found the film's pacing to be slow at times, and others felt it could have delved deeper into the historical complexities of the era. However, the overall sentiment highlighted its powerful portrayal of faith and the enduring impact of kindness.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its sincere portrayal of Saint Nicholas's early life and acts of charity.

  • Commended for strong lead performances and an uplifting, faith-based narrative.

  • Criticized by some for a predictable narrative arc and a somewhat simplistic depiction of historical events.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's positive message and its depiction of compassion and generosity. Many found it to be a moving and faith-affirming story that effectively captures the spirit of Saint Nicholas. Some comments noted that while the story was familiar, the execution was well-done and inspiring.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on location in various historical sites in Europe, aiming for an authentic 4th-century aesthetic, including scenes filmed in ancient ruins that would have been contemporary to Saint Nicholas himself.

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