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Black Robe (1991)

Black Robe (1991)
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Adapted by Brian Moore from his own novel, The Black Robe is a sprawling recreation of a turbelent period in Canadian history. In 1634, Jesuit missionary Father Laforgue (Lothair Bluteau) arrives in the New World, hoping to convert the Huron Indian tribe to Catholicism-and, incidentally, to expedite the French colonization of Quebec. Laforgue is regarded with a combination of warmth and wariness by the natives, who refer to Laforgue and his fellow priests as "black robes". Offering his services as both guide and friend is Algonquin chief Chomina (August Schellenberg). The by-the-book Laforgue does little to endear himself to the Indians-one of whom, a holy man, labels the priest as a demon who will bring nothing but death and destruction. The one who suffers most is Chomina, the man who most desires peaceful coexistence. In an ironic coda, we learn that the "black robes" have set into motion the fall of the Hurons, simply by imposing their Christian values upon them. Black Robe has been compared to Dances with Wolves, but the films do not share the same philosophy: while the idealistic hero of Wolves strives to understand and appreciate his new Indian comrades, the pious protagonist of Black Robe has only conversion in mind. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi

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Starring:
Lothaire Bluteau, Aden Young, (more)
Director(s):
Bruce Beresford
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
R
Format(s):
DVD
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Synopsis of Black Robe

Adapted by Brian Moore from his own novel, The Black Robe is a sprawling recreation of a turbelent period in Canadian history. In 1634, Jesuit missionary Father Laforgue (Lothair Bluteau) arrives in the New World, hoping to convert the Huron Indian tribe to Catholicism-and, incidentally, to expedite the French colonization of Quebec. Laforgue is regarded with a combination of warmth and wariness by the natives, who refer to Laforgue and his fellow priests as "black robes". Offering his services as both guide and friend is Algonquin chief Chomina (August Schellenberg). The by-the-book Laforgue does little to endear himself to the Indians-one of whom, a holy man, labels the priest as a demon who will bring nothing but death and destruction. The one who suffers most is Chomina, the man who most desires peaceful coexistence. In an ironic coda, we learn that the "black robes" have set into motion the fall of the Hurons, simply by imposing their Christian values upon them. Black Robe has been compared to Dances with Wolves, but the films do not share the same philosophy: while the idealistic hero of Wolves strives to understand and appreciate his new Indian comrades, the pious protagonist of Black Robe has only conversion in mind. ~ Hal Erickson, Rovi

Theatrical Feature Running Time:
101 mins

Complete Cast of Black Robe


Director(s):
Bruce Beresford
Writer(s):
Brian Moore
Producer(s):
Stéphane Reichel, Denis Heroux, Jake Eberts
Theatrical MPAA Rating:
R(Adult Language, Not For Children, Sexual Situations, Adult Situations, Nudity, Violence)
Black Robe Awards:
  • 1991 - Genie Awards - Best Cinematography
  • 1991 - Genie Awards - Best Supporting Actor
  • 1991 - Genie Awards - Best Picture
  • 1991 - Genie Awards - Best Art Direction
  • 1991 - Genie Awards - Best Adapted Screenplay
  • 1991 - Genie Awards - Best Art Direction
  • 1991 - Genie Awards - Best Director
Warning:  This product is intended for mature audiences only. It may contain violence, sexual content, drug abuse and/or strong language. You must be 17 or older to purchase it. By ordering this item you are certifying that you are at least 17 years of age.

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    Member Reviews
    Read all (14)
     
    Paul U.

    This is an excellent movie for its portrayal of the terribly complex issues faced by the French (and English, Spanish, and Dutch, for that matter) as they entered the New World. This movie neither belittles the Native Americans nor the Jesuits, and it does not paint a glossy picture… it is dark and thoroughly haunting. Also, one could rent this movie for no other reason than to enjoy the sweeping vistas of the Canadian wilderness and the quick glimpses of France. Another movie to consider might be The Mission.

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    Keith P.

    The movie is pretty good overall and has a historical reality to it that seems genuine. Lots of beautiful north eastern nature shots, valid characters and the natives seem almost childlike. However for such a short movie, the ending could have been done better than just a closing with dialogue... "15 years later...."

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    Katherine S.

    Realistic depiction of that period and challenges that Jesuits experienced.

    Yes   |   No

     
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