Movie Review - Padre Pio: Between Heaven and Earth

The most authentic and accurate portrayal of St. Padre Pio put to film. Not shockingly dramatic or overdone, this film inspires rather than entertains. Any student of the Saint will quickly acknowledge the movie's authenticity - from the monk's stigmata (the physical bearing of the five bodily wounds of Christ's crucifixion) to his gift of reading souls and to his physical altercations with Satan (not over dramatized); from his relentless and devoted efforts to build a hospital for children to his suffering amidst false accusations from inside the Church.

At 2 hours and 40 minutes, the movie keeps the viewer engaged with the amazing life of this monk. Based entirely on historical and eyewitness records, the movie is so true to reality that I personally felt like I was in San Giovanni Rotondo following the very footsteps of our hero saint.

The movie doesn't latch onto any one dramatic theme, nor does it embellish the true story with thematic elements. Rather, the film underscores, with convincing detail and authenticity, those major events in the monk's life that made him such a beloved champion for Christ. Be prepared to laugh, cry, and walk away truly knowing our bigger brother in the family of God. Most of all, this movie will inspire one to want to become a saint.


This review was written as part of The Catholic Company reviewer program. Please visit The Catholic Company to get more information on Padre Pio: Between Heaven and Earth.