Natalia

When most people think of nuns, images of older, devout women often come to mind. Natalia subverts all of those preconceptions. A 29-year-old novice nun, she is leaving behind a reality as an engineering student with a lively romantic life to instead embrace the passions of her faith. Despite facing questions from her family and friends, Natalia is headstrong about her decision and engages in frank discussions about celibacy and the ups and downs of the cloisters. Through beautifully shot black-and-white footage, director Elizabeth Mirzaei provides an intimate and meditative portrait of Natalia through the transitory period of her life as she approaches her vows. The film’s lens radiates the feeling of warmth, closeness, and catharsis through closely framed shots and precisely edited scenes. Natalia’s story enlightens the meaning of faith, life, and devotion. (True/False Film Festival)