Review of Black Narcissus (1947) by Fong K — 13 Apr 2017

This British masterpiece utilises grand Technicolour cinematography and great setting (despite the Indian settlement being filmed in studio instead of on actual location).

Deborah Kerr is most suited to the role of Sister Clodagh who, after years of living a romantic life, ends up leading a group of nuns with different traits in a somewhat cursed settlement. Among the group is Sister Philippa (Flora Robson), who acts as a motherly kind of figure; and Sister Ruth (Kathleen Byron), who behaves in a very rogue manner which has climatic consequences.

Jean Simmons, despite playing a whitewashed role, is effective in portraying Kanchi, a rogue resident girl who ends up falling for Dilip Rai (Sabu).

To understand the full meanings behind these characters, give this film a watch and you will gain a clear understanding why this film has its mark on British cinema. Because having done so myself, I have learnt how such masterpiece can still value to this day.