Benedetta

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Benedetta

2021

2h 6m

History

Drama

Biography

LGBTQ+

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Tomatometer

Popcornmeter

84%

Tomatometer

200 Reviews

90%

Popcornmeter

Fewer than 50 Verified Ratings

Based on a true story, a 17th-century nun becomes entangled in a forbidden lesbian affair with a novice. But it is Benedetta's shocking religious visions that threaten to shake the Church to its core.

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Critics Consensus

Precariously walking a tightrope of varying genres and tones, Benedetta provokes salient questions about sexual freedom and its relationship to faith.

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John Bleasdale

Sight & Sound

May 14, 2026

It is difficult to tell how seriously to take the film, and how seriously the film is taking itself.

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Christina Newland

iNews.co.uk

Sep 18, 2024

5/5

Based on the true story of a 17th-century nun, who both claimed to be able to perform miracles and quietly pursued a lesbian affair in her convent, the Dutch-born director's newest drama will have viewers blushing into their popcorn.

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Edward Porter

The Times (UK)

Aug 24, 2022

3/5

The film relishes that sort of impious thinking in a colourful, mordant tale.

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Joe Flockhart

Loud and Clear Reviews

Mar 2, 2026

4/5

Benedetta is a thrilling and intimate tale providing uncompromised entertainment with scathing commentary; a welcome addition to the veteran’s canon.

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Julian Singleton

Cinapse

Jul 12, 2025

For all of its rejection of religious norms and celebration of sexual autonomy and rebellion, what’s most fascinating about Benedetta is how it equally champions the enduring mystery of Faith.

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Ryan Oquiza

Sinegang

Aug 18, 2023

3/5

What’s most intriguing in the film is its sycophantic religious politics — not the romance. The politicking and faux puritanism are executed cogently, often more riveting than its other parts.

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Sarah E

Jan 8, 2022

Really interesting bizarre story! Pretty intriguing performances.

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Alok

Dec 9, 2021

Entertaining thought provoking and beautifully made

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Jonathan

Dec 8, 2021

Director Verhoeven uses graphic nudity and violence in good taste to shape a provocative view of his protagonist. Is she a saint, a lunatic, or a shrewd deceiver? What others believe about her may be more revealing about themselves!

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Celhia de Lavarene

Dec 6, 2021

The film is based on real facts and is played by superb actors. However, from time to time, especially in the last part, the film sinks into the ridiculous and forces spectators to laugh while the story is dramatic.

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EDWARD B

Dec 5, 2021

A true masterpiece. Paul Verhovens best film.

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JB

Dec 5, 2021

At 82 years old, Paul Verhoeven is still at the top of his game and more hardcore than 99% of his younger contemporaries. All the actors were incredible as well. Very fun movie.

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Paul Verhoeven

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Charlotte Rampling

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Benedetta: Trailer 1

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Benedetta: Teaser Trailer

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Synopsis

Based on a true story, a 17th-century nun becomes entangled in a forbidden lesbian affair with a novice. But it is Benedetta's shocking religious visions that threaten to shake the Church to its core.

Director: Paul Verhoeven
Producer: Saïd Ben Saïd, Michel Merkt, Jérôme Seydoux
Screenwriter: David Birke, Paul Verhoeven
Distributor: IFC Films
Production Co: Belga Productions, France 2 Cinéma, Pathé, SBS Productions, France 3 Cinéma, Topkapi Films
Genre: History, Drama, Biography, LGBTQ+
Original Language: French (France)
Release Date (Theaters): Dec 3, 2021, Limited
Release Date (Streaming): Dec 21, 2021
Box Office (Gross USA): $354.3K
Runtime: 2h 6m
Sound Mix: Dolby Digital
Aspect Ratio: Scope (2.35:1)

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