Movie of the Month - Francis of Assisi (1961)

Introductory Reflection

Cinema can leave a quiet mark on a family. A film watched together does not end when the credits roll. It often continues in memory, in small conversations, and in the questions children ask days later.

For fathers, this matters. We are responsible for what enters our homes. Stories shape how sacrifice, courage, and obedience are understood. When we choose carefully, we help form imagination and conscience without noise or pressure.

Movie Details

Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation (1961) *Francis of Assisi* [film still]. Available at: [https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BZDIzMTIyYWMtNjIxYi00OTFjLWEyNzktYWU4MTZhOTQxM2Q0XkEyXkFqcGc@._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BZDIzMTIyYWMtNjIxYi00OTFjLWEyNzktYWU4MTZhOTQxM2Q0XkEyXkFqcGc@._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg) (Accessed: 27 February 2026).

Title: Francis of Assisi

Year: 1961

Director: Michael Curtiz

Distributor: Twentieth Century Fox Film Corporation

Synopsis

The film presents the early life of Francis, the son of a wealthy merchant in Assisi. After experiencing war and imprisonment, he undergoes a gradual conversion. He renounces his family’s wealth and chooses a life of poverty and simplicity.

The story follows his break with his father, his commitment to rebuild the Church, and the gathering of companions who would later form the Franciscan Order. It also portrays his friendship with Clare and his obedience to the authority of the Church in Rome.

The film aims to show the humanity of Francis as well as the seriousness of his decision to follow Christ completely.

Viewing Information

IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0054892

Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2MtBdRQ5wE0

Reference

IMDb (n.d.) Francis of Assisi (1961). Available at: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0054892 (Accessed: 27 February 2026).

Historical Notes and Differences

As with many historical films, some elements are simplified or adapted for storytelling. Below are commonly noted differences, with established sources:

• Condensed timeline of events

  The film brings together events that historically occurred over several years.

  Source:Thomas of Celano, The Life of St. Francis (13th century biography). Available via Franciscan Media:https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-francis-of-assisi/

• Dramatic emphasis on conflict with his father

  While the conflict is historical, the emotional intensity is heightened for cinema.Source:Catholic Encyclopedia, “St. Francis of Assisi” (New Advent):https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/06221a.htm

• Simplified portrayal of St Clare’s involvement

  The relationship between Francis and Clare is presented in a more continuous narrative form than early sources strictly describe.Source:Franciscan Media, “Saint Clare of Assisi”:https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-clare-of-assisi/

These adaptations do not change the essential outline of his conversion and vocation, but they serve the structure of a two-hour film.

Personal Notes

It is always a quiet surprise when I come across a Catholic film that is well produced and thoughtfully made. That is part of the strength of cinema. This film stayed with me for weeks after watching it. That alone says something about its depth.

Coming from Brazil, Saint Francis of Assisi is a very well-known saint. As a child, I saw his statue in many churches. His life was often told to us in simple ways. Because of that, I feel a certain closeness to him. When watching a film about him, I carry an expectation that his memory be treated with respect.

In this case, I felt the film kept that honour. It showed his humanity, his struggle, and the seriousness of his decision. Watching it now as a father, I noticed more clearly the tension between family expectations and personal calling. It led to calm conversations at home. For that reason, it was worth sharing.

This film can be a good occasion for quiet and thoughtful family viewing.