The Penitent (1988) isn’t faith-affirming drama—it’s lurid exploitation mocking Catholic penitents. In a devout New Mexico/Mexico village reenacting Christ’s Passion (flagellation, crucifixion), jealous husband Ramon (Raúl Juliá) joins fanatical Penitentes while his virginal wife Celia falls for ex-con friend Juan (Armand Assante), sparking deadly love triangle amid rituals. Directed by Cliff Osmond, it sensationalizes "primitive brutal" self-mortification as barbaric cult, blending sex, betrayal, and gore—not exploring redemption or biblical penance. Secular gaze shames Hispanic Catholic traditions as repressed pathology. Cherry-picks extremism to caricature piety, ignoring healthy devotion. Obscure PG-13 thriller for grindhouse fans, not believers.
Quick answers
About The Penitent- How long is The Penitent?
- The Penitent runs 1 hour and 30 minutes (90 minutes).
- Who directed The Penitent?
- The Penitent was directed by Cliff Osmond.
- Who is in the cast of The Penitent?
- The Penitent stars Raúl Juliá as Ramon Guerola, Armand Assante as Juan Mateo and Martin LaSalle as Miguel.
- What language is The Penitent in?
- The Penitent is in English.
- When was The Penitent released?
- The Penitent was released on May 27, 1988.
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