The Monk

Being thinly read I had never heard of the book that the film was based on. That's where wikipedia comes into its own. To help stupid people like me!

The film is a French-Spanish co-production. You can tell that in the look of the film as all continental historical-horror films look alike. It a film about the fall from grace and temptation.

The rise and fall of a Capuchin Monk in 17th century Madrid.

Abandoned as a baby on the steps of a monastery and raised in strict Capuchin fashion, Ambrosio has become the most famous preacher in the country. While large crowds from all over the country come to hear his mesmerizing sermons, he’s also bitterly envied for his success by certain fellow monks.

Convinced of his virtue and righteousness, Brother Ambrosio thinks he is immune to temptation...

Until obscure events start terrorizing the monastery. Could they be connected to the unexpected arrival of Valerio, an apprentice monk who has the miraculous gift to relieve Ambrosio’s splitting headaches and hides his disfigured face under a wax mask?

Adapted from the eponymous cult classic Gothic novel.

In cinemas April 27, 2012