CABRINI (2024) REVIEW

 

There's a moment in this old-fashioned epic where Francesca Cabrini, the badass Catholic missionary nun, takes on the villainous New York mayor like a boss. Picture it: she's there, played by Cristiana Dell’Anna, radiating silent power, while John Lithgow's mayor finally caves under her relentless awesomeness. He even manages to squeeze in a backhanded compliment, wishing she were a man! Classic cluelessness.

But Cabrini, bless her soul, shuts him down with a reminder that her gender doesn't define her greatness. And that, my friends, sets the tone for this overlong but surprisingly refreshing biopic.

Directed by Alejandro Monteverde and penned by Rod Barr, *Cabrini* is a love letter to feminine strength. It's like watching a superhero origin story, but with nuns and a lot more rosaries. Set in the late 1800s, it follows Cabrini's journey from Italy to New York, where she battles prejudice, disease, and a mayor who clearly skipped sensitivity training.

Sure, the film could use a trim here and there. But amidst the repetitive ups and downs, there's a visual feast served up by Monteverde and his cinematographer. Think sumptuous period drama meets Instagram-worthy lighting. And that scene with the kids singing opera? Pure cinematic nostalgia.

Now, if you're thinking, "Alejandro Monteverde, isn't he the guy behind *Sound of Freedom*?" Fear not, *Cabrini* comes controversy-free. Instead, it's a gentle nudge to ponder what kind of world we want to live in. One where equality reigns supreme or one where only the privileged get a seat at the table?

So, while *Cabrini* may not be perfect, it's a damn dignified tribute to some seriously badass women. And hey, any movie that can make you laugh, cry, and Google "how to join a convent" deserves a standing ovation."