Cabrini review: A story of triumph over obstacles

Maria Montemayor

Thursday, April 11, 2024

A scene from Cabrini. Credit: Angel Studios

I spent the evening of my Easter Sunday watching Cabrini, a new feature film by Angel Studios, and I don’t regret it. From beginning to end, the movie kept my attention. There was action, drama, tension, and faith. I gasped, I cried, and I was inspired. It was unexpectedly good.

The protagonist, a nun named Francesca Cabrini (Cristiana Dell'Anna), has a weak constitution. She is seen coughing several times and the religious sisters she lives with worry about her. But what she lacks in physical health, she more than makes up for in her grit and determination. Her tenacious spirit and her love for God and for those in need help her get through difficult situations.

We witness her being told she doesn’t belong, her opposition from religious and civil authorities, and her feelings of defeat when all the doors seemed to close. I related to her experiences: it’s easy to get discouraged when you want to serve or give and are told “no” or are viewed with suspicion. I was heartened to see a figure like Mother Cabrini, who never gave up on her cause and who kept her faith in God, in the Church, and even in the men who opposed her.

Mother Cabrini was a shining example of faith through works. Even though she wasn’t a biological mother, she cared for so many children and did so much for them. She loved orphans by building a home for them and providing them with food and shelter. And you can see how the children loved her and her fellow sisters back by helping out in the ways they could.

The only concern I have is that some scenes weren’t well lit: I’m not sure if it was an issue with the film or my theatre. I was also sorry that there weren’t many people watching the movie when I went. There were only six of us in total.

If you haven’t seen this movie yet, I would suggest you watch it while it’s still in theatres! I didn’t know about Mother Cabrini’s story prior to watching this film, but I think that she would be proud to see her story told in such a stunning way. We need more people like her and more stories told as hers has been, with great acting and cinematography.

St. Cabrini, patron saint of immigrants, pray for us.