Movie of the Month – December 2025

Movie of the Month – Rediscovering the Sacred Through Cinema

Our culture often encourages us to focus only on what is new, leaving the past behind. Many Catholics feel distant from today’s film industry, which can seem disconnected from the faith, leading to the sense that cinema is no longer a place where God can be encountered.

Yet the history of cinema, especially in earlier decades, offers a rich tradition of Catholic storytelling that speaks quietly and deeply to the heart. Re-watching these films reminds us that a true story does not need modern effects to shape the imagination and touch the soul.

As fathers striving to live our vocation after the example of Saint Joseph, we are called to guard what enters our homes and to use even simple moments—like watching a film—as opportunities to pass on faith, virtue, and wonder. This series suggests Catholic or Catholic-safe films suitable for families, helping turn shared viewing time into a gentle encounter with the beauty of our tradition. When possible, public links to these films will be shared.

Title of the Movie: The Miracle of Marcelino

Year Produced: 1955

Synopsis

Marcelino is a young orphan raised by Franciscan friars in a monastery. Curious and innocent, he forms a quiet and personal friendship with Christ. Through simplicity, trust, and love, Marcelino’s story becomes a gentle reflection on faith, sacrifice, and the purity of a child’s heart.

Studio: Chamartín Studios

Country: Spain

Link: YouTube: The Miracle of Marcelino (1955)Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmw2oqiW4Jw

Reference: Chamartín Studios (1955) The Miracle of Marcelino [Film]. Directed by L. Vajda. Spain. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rmw2oqiW4Jw (Accessed: 31 December 2025).

My Personal Notes

I was introduced to this movie by my mother when I was about eight or ten years old. At that time, there was a local VHS rental store that began offering many old black-and-white films, some newly colourised. This movie stayed with me.

Recently, I wanted to show my children something that could hold their attention while also bringing them closer to the faith. I chose this film with some hesitation, afraid they might not enjoy it. To my surprise, they watched it attentively from start to finish.

Afterwards, they asked thoughtful questions. They wanted to know if the story was true, when it was filmed, where it took place, and what they themselves would do if they were in Marcelino’s place. That alone confirmed the value of this film.

It is a quiet movie, but a meaningful one—and well worth sharing with the family.