29/03/2024 - Cécile Embleton and Alys Tomlinson’s doc beckons us into the world of a young Orthodox nun, delving into her turbulent past and fragile future

Cécile Embleton and Alys Tomlinson’s documentary Mother Vera [+see also:
trailer
film profile] will have its world premiere as part of the International Feature Film Competition at this year’s Visions du Réel, running in Nyon from 12-21 April.

From the deep snow of the Belarusian forest to the heat of the reeds in the French Camargue, Mother Vera beckons us into the world of a young Orthodox nun, exploring her turbulent past and her fragile future. Revealed through spellbinding visual language echoing the rigid discipline of monastic life, we enter the enclosed, shadowy spaces of a convent outside Minsk. Sound and silence submerge us in the rhythm of the community. After 20 years of monastic service and faced with a life-changing decision, Vera must confront her troubled past to find the freedom she desires.

Speaking about their film, the two helmers say: “We were immediately drawn to Vera’s striking presence, and she invited us to visit her monastery in Belarus. With a small grant from Sony, we were able to visit the convent for the first time. What began with curiosity revealed a deeper connection for us both. Working in religious communities led us to discover our mutual fascination for the exploration of the intangible topic of faith, as well as a shared distinctive aesthetic and visual approach which has been expressed in this film. Our diverse perspectives have enriched our approach.”

Mother Vera was produced by Laura Shacham for UK-based firm She Makes Productions, with Vikram Gudi and Murugan Thiruchelvam on board as executive producers. Backing came from the Sundance Institute Documentary Film Program, and assistance was provided by the Hot Docs first-look pitch fund.

Check out our exclusive trailer below: