Godless

Godless, written and directed by Michael Ricigliano is a compelling tale, tackling big themes such as morality and humankind. The writing and direction is utterly mesmerizing and deeply thought provoking. At times, this movie feels like a stage production. The one on one scenes between masterful actors Harry Lennix as the Bishop and Ana Ortiz were seamless and beautifully written. You can feel the conflict they are navigating with deep conviction. This is a movie that will make you think and look inside, a feat not so common in film making anymore. Ricigliano has brought us another gem not to be missed!

I salute the makers of this film! The movie is sensitive, tender and powerful. I highly recommend it. A winner.

In a time where movie making relies on cgi and special effects to try and make the story and its characters appear bigger than they are, it's refreshing to see a film that relies on the dialogue and the actors ability to relay the story. Godless is that type of film. Set in a minimal amount of locations, the film wraps you up in its subject matter and the timeliness of the story. Ana Ortiz is excellent as the Governor struggling with the obligations she has to her constituents and her faith opposite Harry Lennix who plays the headstrong Bishop of her Diocese. Dan Grimaldi gives a great performance.

Godless tackles serious issues surrounding our modern world and the dilemma of church vs state decisions that shape our world. The acting is outstanding with true and gritty dialogue with high ranking people fighting mightily for what they believe in. The scene in the church at the end brings everything to light in that ethical people can stick with their differing beliefs and garner a real friendship and understanding to move forward. A must see in an age where movies with authentic dialogue is hard to find. The conviction of the actors shines through their respective characters making them absolutely believable.

Godless is a thought-provoking drama that fearlessly tackles the complex intersection of faith and politics. Anchored by powerful performances from Ana Ortiz and Harry Lennix, the film explores the moral challenges faced by elected officials in reconciling their religious convictions with their duty to serve all constituents.

Ortiz really shines as a Catholic governor whose progressive stances put her at odds with church leadership, while Lennix brings gravitas to his role as the bishop who controversially excommunicates her. Their charged exchanges crackle with intensity, layering scriptural debates with political calculation.

Godless is admirably ambitious in grappling with weighty questions of spiritual devotion vs. Secular obligation. It's rare to see a film engage so directly with the tightrope leaders walk in compartmentalizing personal beliefs for the greater good.

The poignant climax, flashing forward years later, reaches for a bittersweet grace note about forgiveness and seeing humanity in those we disagree with. It's a moving ending that deepens the film's central themes.

Sincere and probing, Godless largely transcends its dramatic imperfections through the strength of its performances and provocative subject matter. It's a valuable conversation-starter for anyone interested in the eternal push-pull between private faith and the public square.

Godless, a film by Michael Ricigliano, tells the story of a governor whose internal conflict arises when she is faced with decisions that are in opposition to her deeply held religious beliefs. Under the direction of Michael Ricigliano, Anna Ortiz reveals the painful struggle that we all face when we try to be true to ourselves while being compassionate to the plight of others. The characters are honest and relatable. The conflict is not new, however, if we're being honest, there are still many times that we struggle with the idea of knowing, and doing, what is right. This film reminds us that we are all human.