Review of The Very Private Work of Sister K (2016) by Jonathan B — 20 Nov 2017

A strangely compelling film set in one room and played out in real time. The Very Private Work of Sister K sees a young nun appear before an ecclesiastical hearing investigating the circumstances leading to the death of a mentally disabled patient whilst in her care.

What unfolds is a tale of questionable moral judgement and potential scandal that the church authorities really would rather never came to light. It is a densely complex and wordy story, full of ambiguity and discomforting ideas.

Director Johan Liedgren does well not to sensationalise or trivialise the subject matter and gives us a strange, troubling and at times darkly comedic film. There is a totally believable cast who do not parody their roles and the awkward floundering of the characters is beautifully portrayed.

I think particular praise should go to Liza Curtiss who play the titular Sister K. She gives a blinding performance of a complex, confused and morally questionable young woman, making her appear both headstrong and determined.

Indeed, as a viewer, I squirmed as she tangled her inquisitors in arguments about legal, religious and moral questions that the male characters seem unable or incapable of tackling. It is a very strong, fascinating and noteworthy movie that really succeeds in broaching a difficult topic.