This film simply could not be made in this day of Hollywood anti-religion, anti-Christian bias. It is a faithful adaptation of the Werfel book and, although a long film, is consistently high quality. All of the elements come together to elevate the film to a position in the top rank of films of the period.
Casting is one of the strongest facets of the film. Jennifer Jones gives a performance that is quiet, self effacing yet filled with a core of strength entirely suitable for the young Bernadette. She is surrounded with an astonishing group of character actors -- twelve of the best Hollywood had to offer at the time. Charles Bickford, Anne Revere, Roman Bohnen, Lee J. Cobb, and Vincent Price head the list, but even fairly small roles are played by first rank pros. Gladys Cooper (later to play Henry Higgins mother brilliantly) is outstanding as a bitter, covetous Nun who fails to understand Bernadette.
Even though long, the pacing is tight throughout. I have watched the film several times and have never felt that it dragged at any point. Photography is excellent and even the "visions" of the Virgin Mary, though primitive by todays high technical ability, is acceptable. (One bit of trivia to smile at, the Virgin is played by Linda Darnell, later to be a popular sex symbol) The Song of Bernadette will not be every one's cup of tea. It requires focus and attention. It is thoughtful. It respects the religious point of view of the central figure, Bernadette. In some ways, the film has a sort of European sensibility. If any of that represents barriers to your enjoyment of a film you'd best pass on this gem.
Casting is one of the strongest facets of the film. Jennifer Jones gives a performance that is quiet, self effacing yet filled with a core of strength entirely suitable for the young Bernadette. She is surrounded with an astonishing group of character actors -- twelve of the best Hollywood had to offer at the time. Charles Bickford, Anne Revere, Roman Bohnen, Lee J. Cobb, and Vincent Price head the list, but even fairly small roles are played by first rank pros. Gladys Cooper (later to play Henry Higgins mother brilliantly) is outstanding as a bitter, covetous Nun who fails to understand Bernadette.
Even though long, the pacing is tight throughout. I have watched the film several times and have never felt that it dragged at any point. Photography is excellent and even the "visions" of the Virgin Mary, though primitive by todays high technical ability, is acceptable. (One bit of trivia to smile at, the Virgin is played by Linda Darnell, later to be a popular sex symbol) The Song of Bernadette will not be every one's cup of tea. It requires focus and attention. It is thoughtful. It respects the religious point of view of the central figure, Bernadette. In some ways, the film has a sort of European sensibility. If any of that represents barriers to your enjoyment of a film you'd best pass on this gem.