La maudite

This film is about the life and miracles of (Saint) Margaret of Cortona, a peasant girl in 13th century Tuscany. Through pureness of spirit she overcame her enemies, especially her stepmother's lover who made attempts to seduce her, and the townspeople who rejected her abilities to work wonders. Arsenio, her fiancé and the only true love of her life died a murder victim, leaving poor Margaret alone and disconsolate. Later she helped victims of the plague and contracted it herself. Actress Maria Fraü gives an excellent portrayal of this noble woman, and the period background is carefully wrought. Isa Pola plays her sexually-weak mother-in-law and seething villainess. Director Mario Bonnard imparted true dignity to the subject matter. The photography of Leonida Barboni is a plus.