Mary: The Mary MacKillop Story
Mary: The Mary MacKillop Story

Movie spotlight

Mary: The Mary MacKillop Story

1994
Movie
75 min
English

MARY is based on the true life story of Mary MacKillop who in the 1860s began an order of nuns to teach poor Catholic children in rural Australia. When she refused to obey the local Bishop, she was ex-communicated. More than 100 years later, in 1995, she was beatified as Australia's first saint. The film follows her tumultuous journey.

Insights

IMDb7.0/10
Director: Haydn KeenanGenres: Biography, Drama, History

Plot Summary

This biographical drama recounts the life of Mary MacKillop, Australia's first saint. It follows her journey from a young woman in 19th-century South Australia to her founding of the Sisters of St. Joseph and her struggles against church authorities. The film highlights her unwavering dedication to educating the poor and marginalized across the continent.

Critical Reception

The film received a generally positive reception, praised for its respectful portrayal of a significant historical and religious figure in Australian history. While not a major international release, it resonated within Australia for its depiction of MacKillop's resilience and pioneering spirit.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its faithful depiction of Mary MacKillop's life and mission.

  • Appreciated for its historical accuracy and focus on Australian heritage.

  • Some found the pacing to be slow, but generally viewed as a moving tribute.

Google audience: Information regarding specific Google user reviews for this film is not readily available.

Fun Fact

Mary MacKillop was canonized as a saint by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010, over a decade after this film's release.

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