
Movie spotlight
Pilgrims
In a city afflicted by a series of increasingly violent protests, a dying young man is visited in his apartment by a refugee, a political radical, and a priest.
Insights
Plot Summary
In 1970s Newfoundland, a shy, hospitalized P.E.I. nurse finds himself drawn into a mysterious, dark, and surreal world. A peculiar employer sends him to the isolated island of Perfidia to work in a children's hospital. There, he navigates a landscape of secrets, unspoken desires, and strange rituals, all while grappling with his own identity and a growing sense of unease.
Critical Reception
Pilgrims received a mixed to positive reception from critics, with many praising its unique and unsettling atmosphere, avant-garde style, and strong performances. Some found the narrative opaque and the pacing deliberately slow, but it was largely recognized for its artistic ambition and distinct visual language.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its dreamlike, surreal atmosphere and striking visual style.
Lauded for its compelling performances and exploration of psychological themes.
Some critics found the narrative abstract and challenging to follow.
Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's distinctive artistic vision and unsettling mood, with many finding it a thought-provoking and memorable cinematic experience. However, some viewers found the story's ambiguity and unconventional narrative structure to be a drawback.
Awards & Accolades
Nominated for Best Director at the Canadian Screen Awards.
Fun Fact
The film was shot entirely in black and white, contributing to its distinctive, retro aesthetic that evokes classic cinema.
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