I picked up this film when I was in Washington last week (at the National Shrine at Catholic University), some for private reasons, and some because it’s a great story.
Blessed Father Damien volunteered to minister to the leper colony on the Hawaiian island of Molokai (phonetically pronounced mo-lo’-kai-ee). During the late 19th century, Molokai was a death sentence. If one was even suspected of leprosy, they were placed on a boat and shipped away, often to die desperate and alone, without medical attention or even the consolation of medical assistance.
Often the lepers preyed upon each other, the strong taking from the weak in a cycle of endless want and cruelty.
Enter Father Damien.
This is a great film, with an amazing cast. Most will instantly recognize the actor who plays Fr. Damien (David Wenham, or Faramir from LOTR), or the host of big names involved in the film such as Kris Kristofferson, Sam Neill, Peter O’Toole, Tom Wilkinson (Falcone from Batman Begins), Leo McKern (Cromwell from another Catholic film A Man For All Seasons, and ironically this was his final film), Derek Jacobi (the good senator from Gladiator), and yes Alice Krige (incurable Trekkies will instantly know the name).
Check this film out when you get a chance. Not a suspenseful thriller, but the scenery is amazing and the story gripping. Fr. Damien was not without faults as a man; angry, impulsive, demanding, disobedient, and very human. Nonetheless, he was a holy man, and the film captured every bit of his life.
David Wenham gave an excellent performance. You’ll certainly walk away with an appreciation for many actors in this film, if not an appreciation for the poorest of the poor and what that truly means.