Clara and Francis tells the story of the thirteenth century Catholic saints. Francis remains one of our most popular saints, especially with animal lovers and environmentalists, the most prominent being the pope who took his name and wrote Laudato Si(Praise Be To You), an important contribution to the work of those attempting to save the earth from destruction. Brother Sun, Sister Moon and Mother Earth are the most memorable of Francis' quotes. The movie begins with the future saint as a soldier seeking a knighthood. After a bloody battle he is called by God to change the world, and he certainly did. Disowned by his father, he founded an order who, to this day, take vows of poverty and preach the simplest of the messages of Jesus. Clara was his spiritual companion, giving up a life of luxury in order to serve God. A scene inside of what looks like an authentic thirteenth century church is the visual highlight of the film. Hundreds of Franciscan monks hold candles at a Vigil Mass, and it is breathtaking. The actors are fine but I was distracted by the beautiful blue eyed actress playing Clara. She and the actor playing Francis look like star crossed lovers. Other than that small complaint, I was mesmerized for two hours by Clara and Francis.
