Saint Maud

Saint Maud is a psychological horror film from 2019 that tells the story of a young nurse named Maud who becomes dangerously obsessed with saving the soul of her terminally ill patient, Amanda.

Maud, played by Morfydd Clark, is a deeply religious nurse who has recently converted to Catholicism. She is assigned to care for Amanda, an ex-dancer who is now dying of lymphoma, played by Jennifer Ehle. The two women could not be more different - Amanda is a free-spirited bohemian who enjoys drugs, alcohol, and casual sex, while Maud lives a strictly ascetic life and is committed to saving souls.

Maud's religious devotion and belief in the power of prayer become all-consuming as she tries to convince Amanda to repent and convert before it's too late. As Maud's desperation grows, so does her increasingly fanatical behavior. She begins to see visions of God and hears his voice telling her to complete her mission. She even goes so far as to commit horrific acts of violence in the name of her faith.

The film is a slow burn, building tension and suspense as Maud's behavior becomes more erratic and unpredictable. The cinematography is striking, with bold, saturated colors and intimate close-ups that intensify the sense of dread. The soundtrack is also outstanding, with a mix of haunting choral music and eerie sound effects that add to the film's unsettling atmosphere.

At its core, Saint Maud is a psychological character study that delves into the complex layers of religious obsession and mental illness. Maud's devout beliefs and desire for redemption are inextricably linked to her own personal traumas, and the film explores the ways in which faith can serve as both a source of comfort and a source of danger for those struggling with mental health issues.

One of the film's standout performances is Morfydd Clark as Maud. She brings a quiet intensity to the role, portraying the character's inner turmoil with subtlety and nuance. Jennifer Ehle is also excellent as Amanda, providing a sharp contrast to Maud's religious fervor with her own brand of carefree nihilism.

Overall, Saint Maud is a chilling and thought-provoking film that will stick with viewers long after the credits roll. It's a masterful exploration of religious mania and the human psyche, brought to life by stunning visuals and stellar performances.