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New Movies: Cabrini (2024) by Alejandro Monteverde: A Relentless Pursuit of Hope Against All Odds

  • Writer: dailyentertainment95
    dailyentertainment95
  • 2 hours ago
  • 12 min read

Core Summary: The True Story of an Unwavering Nun Battling Prejudice to Build an Empire of Hope for Immigrants in 19th Century New York Cabrini (2024), directed by Alejandro Monteverde, is a powerful biographical drama that chronicles the remarkable life of Catholic missionary Francesca Cabrini (portrayed by Cristiana Dell'Anna), who would become the first American saint. Set in late 19th-century New York City, the film depicts Cabrini's unwavering resolve as she confronts systemic sexism, anti-Italian bigotry, and deep-seated societal indifference to establish a network of orphanages, hospitals, and schools for the city's destitute and marginalized Italian immigrants. Despite her frail health and facing immense resistance from both the Church hierarchy and political figures, Cabrini's tenacious vision drives her to build an "empire of hope" against all odds.

Summary Short: A determined nun, Francesca Cabrini, battles prejudice and a hostile system in late 19th-century New York to establish vital institutions for vulnerable Italian immigrants.

Detailed Summary: From Humble Dreams to a Global Mission

  • Film Overview: Cabrini (2024) is an American biographical drama film directed by Alejandro Monteverde, co-written by Monteverde and Rod Barr. It has a running time of 142 minutes and is rated PG-13 for thematic material, some violence, language, and smoking. The film was released in the United States on International Women's Day, March 8, 2024.

  • The Protagonist - Francesca Cabrini: The film centers on Mother Frances Xavier Cabrini (born Maria Francesca Cabrini), an Italian nun plagued by tuberculosis, yet driven by an indomitable spirit and a grand vision. From childhood, she dreamed of sailing boats on missions to other countries, and as an adult, she yearns to build missionary orders and help the poor.

  • Early Resistance: After multiple attempts to establish her order, she travels to the Vatican to petition Pope Leo XIII (Giancarlo Giannini) for permission to serve the poor. Initially rejected due to her ambition and gender, she insists on her vision to establish an orphanage in China, famously stating, "the world is not large enough for what I want to do." The Pope, perhaps intrigued by her tenacity, eventually directs her to New York City to aid Italian immigrants.

  • Arrival in New York (1889): Cabrini migrates to New York with her fellow Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. They immediately face the grim reality of poverty, disease, and severe anti-Italian bigotry in the Five Points area. They are often dismissed, denied basic shelter (forced to stay in a brothel on their first night), and met with hostility from both the corrupt city mayor (John Lithgow) and the initially unhelpful Archbishop Corrigan (David Morse).

  • Battles and Breakthroughs: Cabrini's mission is marked by relentless struggle. She works tirelessly to establish charity work, open a hospital, and care for countless orphaned children, often venturing into dangerous parts of the city at night, further deteriorating her health. She uses her wit, faith, and shrewd business acumen to overcome bureaucratic obstacles, secure properties (including one on the Upper West Side and a former Jesuit property provided by Corrigan), and raise funds.

  • Confronting Injustice: The film highlights Cabrini's direct confrontations with powerful figures who dismiss or actively oppose her, including the bigoted mayor and a pimp named Geno. She leverages media (a New York Times reporter) and her papal authority to gain leverage and expose the inhumane conditions faced by immigrants.

  • "Empire of Hope": Despite setbacks like arson (her newly purchased hospital building being set on fire) and police interference, Cabrini's determination never wavers. She persuades the Pope to overrule Corrigan's attempts to send her back to Italy, articulating her vision for an "empire of hope." She also secures funding from the Italian Senate to complete the hospital.

  • Legacy: Despite her debilitating lung condition, Mother Cabrini lives to be 67, becoming hugely celebrated for her vast network of institutions that provided education, healthcare, and dignity to thousands of immigrants. She became the first naturalized citizen of the United States to be canonized as a saint.

  • Cast: Features Cristiana Dell'Anna as Francesca Cabrini, David Morse as Archbishop Corrigan, Giancarlo Giannini as Pope Leo XIII, John Lithgow as the Mayor, and Romana Maggiora Vergano as Vittoria.

Plot Summary: The Unstoppable Force for the Voiceless

  • The Calling and the Obstacle: In late 19th-century Italy, the frail but fiercely determined nun Francesca Cabrini dreams of serving the poor and establishing her own missionary order. Despite suffering from tuberculosis and being repeatedly denied by the Vatican due to her gender and perceived ambition, her unwavering faith and grand vision lead her to seek an audience with Pope Leo XIII. Her audacious request to build an empire of compassion across the world eventually persuades the Pontiff to send her not to China, but to the squalid, prejudice-ridden Five Points of New York City, to aid its desperate Italian immigrant community.

  • A Hostile Welcome: Arriving in New York with a small group of fellow Sisters, Cabrini is immediately confronted by overwhelming poverty, disease, and rampant anti-Italian discrimination. They face indifference from the Church hierarchy, led by the skeptical Archbishop Corrigan, and outright hostility from the corrupt Mayor and local thugs who exploit the vulnerable. With no resources or support, they are forced to find shelter in a brothel, witnessing firsthand the desperate plight of the immigrants, including orphaned children like Paolo and Enzo.

  • Building Against the Tide: Undeterred by the immense resistance and the deteriorating state of her own health, Cabrini begins her tireless work. She establishes makeshift clinics and schools, often venturing into dangerous areas to find children. Her shrewd business sense, combined with her unwavering faith and fierce advocacy, allows her to acquire properties for orphanages and hospitals, constantly clashing with city officials and powerful figures who seek to remove her. She uses every tool at her disposal – from papal letters to a compassionate New York Times reporter – to expose the injustices.

  • Trials and Triumphs: The journey is fraught with setbacks: her efforts are sabotaged, her buildings are targeted by arson, and she is even arrested. Yet, each obstacle only strengthens her resolve. She returns to Italy to appeal directly to the Pope, securing his renewed support and even gaining financial aid from the Italian Senate. Back in New York, she faces down the Mayor, demanding justice for her community.

  • An Empire of Hope: Through sheer willpower, a blend of spiritual devotion and pragmatic entrepreneurship, and the growing support of various immigrant communities, Cabrini succeeds in building a formidable network of orphanages, schools, and a first-rate hospital. Despite being constantly underestimated and battling her own physical ailments, she creates a lasting legacy of hope and dignity for the voiceless. The film culminates in her tireless efforts coming to fruition, celebrating her extraordinary achievements against the backdrop of a challenging era, cementing her place as a pivotal figure in American history.

Director's Vision: Alejandro Monteverde's Vision for Human Dignity and Relentless Hope Alejandro Monteverde (born 1977, Tampico, Mexico) is a Mexican-American director, writer, and producer known for his independent films often with strong social or faith-based themes. His filmography includes Bella (2006, People's Choice Award at TIFF) and the controversial box-office hit Sound of Freedom (2023). For Cabrini, Monteverde's vision is clearly focused on:

  • Celebrating Human Dignity: The film aims to highlight "human dignity — particularly the dignity of women and marginalized groups, including immigrants and the poor — and solidarity in the face of prejudice and social injustice."

  • Uplifting Biopic: To create an inspiring tribute to Mother Cabrini, showcasing her perseverance, compassion, and tireless commitment to the vulnerable.

  • Period Authenticity: To immerse viewers in late 19th-century New York City, depicting its poverty, prejudices (sexism and anti-Italian bigotry), and the challenges faced by immigrants.

  • Strong Female Protagonist: To portray Cabrini as a formidable, entrepreneurial woman who defied societal expectations and institutional barriers, particularly during a time when women had limited influence.

  • "Empire of Hope": To convey Cabrini's ambitious vision not just as charity, but as building a systemic solution, an "empire of hope" that provides lasting infrastructure for education and healthcare.

  • Faith and Action: While dealing with a Catholic saint, the film focuses more on Cabrini's actions and resilience in the face of adversity, rather than explicit religious praxis, aiming for broader appeal. Monteverde stated he wants to "contribute something to the solution of these issues with the only weapon I have, which is cinema.”

Themes: Human Dignity, Immigration, Social Justice, Perseverance, Faith, Entrepreneurship, Sexism, Prejudice, Compassion, and Legacy.

  • Human Dignity: Central to the film, emphasizing the inherent worth of every individual, especially the marginalized.

  • Immigration and Xenophobia: Explores the severe challenges faced by Italian immigrants in late 19th-century America, including discrimination and lack of resources.

  • Social Justice: Cabrini's relentless fight against systemic inequalities and her efforts to create a more just society for the poor and vulnerable.

  • Perseverance and Resilience: Cabrini's unwavering determination despite chronic illness, clerical opposition, and political hostility.

  • Female Empowerment and Leadership: Showcases Cabrini as a powerful, entrepreneurial woman who defied the limitations placed on her gender in that era.

  • Faith in Action: While not overtly evangelistic, the film portrays how Cabrini's deep faith fueled her extraordinary actions and unwavering hope.

  • The Power of Vision: Cabrini's grand ambition to build an "empire of hope" highlights the transformative power of a clear and relentless vision.

Key Success Factors: Inspiring True Story, Strong Lead Performance, Thematic Resonance, and Effective Marketing

  • Inspirational True Story: Based on the life of a canonized saint, offering a compelling narrative of perseverance against adversity.

  • Cristiana Dell'Anna's Performance: Her portrayal of Cabrini is widely praised as "stunningly effective" and "magnetic," anchoring the film.

  • Timely Themes: The film's focus on immigration, social justice, and female empowerment remains highly relevant in contemporary society.

  • Angel Studios Distribution: Leveraging the grassroots and community-driven marketing model successfully employed for Sound of Freedom.

  • Strong Supporting Cast: Features respected actors like John Lithgow, David Morse, and Giancarlo Giannini.

  • Visually Appealing Period Piece: "Lushly mounted portrait of life in 1880s New York," praised for its aesthetic.

Summary Short: Released March 2024 (Theatrical & VOD), Biographical Drama, Critically Positive, Box Office Struggle Despite Quality. Cabrini (2024), directed by Alejandro Monteverde, had a wide theatrical release in the United States on March 8, 2024 (International Women's Day), distributed by Angel Studios. It became available for streaming to Angel Guild members on April 26, 2024, and for VOD purchase/rental on June 25, 2024. The biographical drama about Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini received mostly positive reviews (91% on Rotten Tomatoes, 51/100 on Metacritic, "A" CinemaScore), with particular praise for Cristiana Dell'Anna's lead performance. Despite critical acclaim and audience favor, the film struggled at the box office, grossing $20.6 million worldwide against a $50 million budget.

Awards & Nominations: Early Recognition Cabrini (2024) has received some early recognition:

  • 29th Satellite Awards: Nominated for Best Motion Picture – Drama.

  • 2025 Movieguide Awards: Won the Epiphany Prize for Most Inspiring Movie.

These nominations and awards indicate a positive reception for the film, particularly within certain industry and faith-based circles, recognizing its dramatic quality and inspiring message.

Critics Reception: Mostly Positive, Praised for Lead Performance and Message, Mixed on Pacing Critical reception for Cabrini (2024) has been mostly positive, particularly for its lead performance and inspiring message, though some reviews noted pacing issues.

  • Rotten Tomatoes: Holds an impressive 91% approval rating from 90 critics, with an average rating of 7.2/10. The consensus states: "Aided by Cristiana Dell'Anna's performance in the title role, Cabrini is an uplifting biopic with a timeless message."

  • Metacritic: Received a score of 51 out of 100 based on 14 critics, indicating "mixed or average" reviews. This suggests more nuanced reception from mainstream critics.

  • CinemaScore & PostTrak: Audiences gave the film an "A" on an A+ to F scale (CinemaScore) and 94% overall positive score (PostTrak), indicating strong audience satisfaction.

  • Key Praises:

    • Cristiana Dell'Anna's Performance: Widely lauded as "stunningly effective," "movie-star performance," and "magnetic," a driving force of the film. (Richard Roeper, RogerEbert.com)

    • Inspiring Message: Praised for its powerful themes of "human dignity," "solidarity," and "perseverance" in the face of prejudice. (Thomas More Lawyers' Guild, Decent Films)

    • Lush Period Detail: Described as a "beautiful reminder" of the person and era, offering a "lushly mounted portrait of life in 1880s New York." (Chicago Sun-Times, The Guardian)

    • Timely Relevance: Themes of immigration and social justice are noted as "as pressing in 2024 as they were in 1894." (Decent Films)

    • Dignified Portrayal: Seen as a "damn dignified" film that honors a little-known heroine. (RogerEbert.com)

  • Common Criticisms (often from those giving "mixed" reviews):

    • Overlong/Repetitive: Some critics felt the 142-minute runtime was "overlong" and suffered from "repetition" or "inconsistent pacing." (The Hollywood Reporter, TheWrap, The New York Times)

    • Lack of Depth/Passion: A few found it "stodgy and repetitive" (The New York Times) or "warm with fondness but never boiling with passion," suggesting the portrayal of a literal saint made her "a little difficult to relate to." (Wall Street Journal)

    • Subtlety of Faith: Some Catholic reviewers noted a perceived "lack of prayer, Catholic spirituality, and God," arguing it was more a "movie about Catholics, but not a 'Catholic movie.'" (Priestly Fraternity of St. Peter)

Overall, Cabrini is largely seen as a heartfelt, well-acted, and visually appealing biopic that successfully highlights the impactful work of Mother Cabrini, despite some debates over its narrative pacing and thematic focus.

Reviews: Strong Audience Approval, Mixed Critical Opinion Audience reviews have been overwhelmingly positive, showing a strong emotional connection to the film's inspiring story and themes. Critical reviews are more divided, with many praising its intentions and lead performance, but some finding its execution uneven or too reverent.

Box Office: Commercial Underperformance Despite Positive Reception Cabrini (2024) experienced commercial underperformance at the box office despite receiving largely positive critical reviews and strong audience scores.

  • Production Budget: $50 million.

  • Worldwide Gross: $20.6 million (as of July 1, 2024).

    • Domestic (US & Canada): $19.5 million.

    • International: $1.1 million.

  • The film's worldwide gross was only 0.4 times its production budget, making it a box-office bomb.

  • Opening Weekend (US): $7.17 million (March 8, 2024), ranking 4th.

  • Theatrical Release Strategy: Angel Studios utilized a similar community-driven marketing approach as with Sound of Freedom, but it did not replicate that film's unexpected financial success.

Production Summary: Angel Studios and International Collaboration Cabrini (2024) is primarily an American production, with international elements reflecting its subject matter.

  • Director: Alejandro Monteverde

  • Screenplay by: Rod Barr

  • Story by: Alejandro Monteverde, Rod Barr

  • Producers: J. Eustace Wolfington, Jonathan Sanger, Leo Severino

  • Executive Producer: Francesca Cabrini (historical figure, indicating the film's dedication to her)

  • Cinematography: Gorka Gómez Andreu

  • Editing: F. Brian Scofield

  • Music by: Gene Back

  • Production Design: Carlos Lagunas

  • Costume Design: Alisha Silverstein

  • Music Supervisor: Mary Ramos

Production/Financing Companies:

  • Angel Studios

  • Lodigiano Film Development Inc.

  • Francesca Film Production NY

  • Lupin Film

Distribution Company:

  • Angel Studios (United States theatrical and digital)

  • Gravel Road Distribution Group (South Africa)

Release Date on Streaming:

  • Angel Guild Members (SVOD): April 26, 2024 (via Angel App/Angel.com)

  • VOD (Purchase/Rental): June 25, 2024 (via platforms like Amazon VOD, iTunes, Vudu)

Theatrical Release:

  • United States (Wide): March 8, 2024 (International Women's Day)

  • International: Began March 7, 2024 (Australia, New Zealand, France, Serbia and Montenegro, etc., with later releases in other territories like Italy in October 2024).

Cast:

  • Cristiana Dell'Anna as Francesca Cabrini

  • David Morse as Archbishop Corrigan

  • Giancarlo Giannini as Pope Leo XIII

  • John Lithgow as The Mayor

  • Romana Maggiora Vergano as Vittoria

  • Federico Ielapi

  • Virginia Bocelli

  • Rolando Villazón

  • Allen Lewis Rickman

  • Sarah Santizo

  • Laura Vivio

  • Katherine Boecher

  • Jeremy Bobb

  • Patch Darragh

  • Andrew Polk

  • Dean Neistat

  • Giampiero Judica

  • Lukas Behnken

  • Montserrat Espadalé

  • Federico Castelluccio

  • Ashley Szczerbacki

  • Soraïa Scicchitano

Director:

  • Alejandro Monteverde

Why to Recommend this Movie: An Inspiring Story of Resilience and Social Impact

  • Powerful True Story: Chronicles the incredible life of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini, a woman who defied immense obstacles.

  • Strong Lead Performance: Cristiana Dell'Anna delivers a widely praised, magnetic portrayal of Cabrini.

  • Timely Themes: Addresses highly relevant issues of immigration, social justice, and female empowerment.

  • Visually Compelling: A well-crafted period piece that immerses viewers in 19th-century New York.

  • Uplifting Message: Despite the struggles depicted, the film offers a message of hope, perseverance, and the impact one determined individual can make.

Why to Watch Movie: If You Are Drawn to Historical Dramas and Inspiring Biopics

  • You enjoy biographical films that highlight significant historical figures and their contributions.

  • You are interested in stories about social justice, immigration, and fighting against systemic prejudice.

  • You appreciate films with strong female protagonists who overcome immense odds.

  • You're looking for an uplifting and thought-provoking drama that combines faith and relentless action.

  • You want to see a beautifully shot period piece with a compelling central performance.

Movie Trend: Faith-Based/Inspirational Biopics and Grassroots Distribution Cabrini (2024) is a prime example of the growing trend of "Faith-Based/Inspirational Biopics," often distributed by companies like Angel Studios, which cater to audiences seeking uplifting, morally driven narratives based on real-life figures. Its release strategy reflects a reliance on "Grassroots and Community-Driven Marketing," leveraging direct engagement with audiences rather than traditional studio advertising. The film also aligns with "Period Dramas with Social Relevance," using historical settings to explore themes that resonate with contemporary societal issues (e.g., immigration). Its focus on a strong female historical figure places it within the trend of "Female-Led Historical Narratives."

Social Trend: Immigration Challenges, Women's Empowerment, and Social Activism The film deeply resonates with contemporary social trends surrounding "Immigration Challenges" and xenophobia, highlighting historical parallels to modern debates about immigrant rights and treatment. Mother Cabrini's story is a powerful testament to "Women's Empowerment and Leadership," showcasing how an individual can break barriers and achieve monumental goals despite societal limitations. Her relentless work for the marginalized aligns with the increasing focus on "Social Activism and Advocacy" for vulnerable populations. The film's message of addressing poverty, illness, and lack of dignity reflects ongoing global efforts towards "Humanitarian Aid and Social Justice," emphasizing the impact of compassionate action on systemic issues.

Final Verdict: A Moving and Resilient Portrait of a Visionary Woman Cabrini (2024) is a compelling and deeply moving biographical drama that shines a much-deserved light on the extraordinary life of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini. Alejandro Monteverde's direction, coupled with Cristiana Dell'Anna's commanding performance, delivers an inspiring tale of unwavering faith, entrepreneurial spirit, and relentless social activism against a backdrop of immense prejudice. While it may have faced box office hurdles, its powerful message of human dignity, perseverance, and building an "empire of hope" resonates strongly, making it a significant and worthwhile watch for anyone seeking an uplifting and thought-provoking cinematic experience.


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