‘A Quiet Place’: One of the Best Modern Horror Movies
Rather than following in the footsteps of poorly made horror flicks, “The Quiet Place” follows original concept.
The Penitent (1988)
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.
- / 5
PopScore
Representation
Pictures and Videos
Movie Information
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.
Rating:
Genre:Horror, Drama, Thriller, Crime
Written By:Cliff Osmond
In Theaters:5/27/1988
Box Office:
Runtime:90 minutes
Studio:The Vista Organization, Ithaca
Articles You May Like
'Stargirl' Shows Self Expression Among Teenagers
Self expression among teenagers is explored in the live adaptation of Jerry Spinelli's novel of the same name.
Finding Strength Through Faith and Guidance
The Forge is a moving story about a young man’s search for purpose. Through mentorship, discipline, and faith in God, his life is transformed from confusion into clarity, reminding us that true greatness is shaped in the fire of surrender and growth.
'World's Best' Review: Where Flows Meet Formulas
This Disney+ movie is about a 12-year-old math genius who wants to become a rapper.
“Coyote vs. Acme” and People Power
We are incredibly blessed that this movie is available for us to see, and we should take advantage of the opportunity we’ve been given.
The Gloriously Unapologetic Queerness of The Sandman
The Sandman features a plethora of LGBTQ+ characters and is openly expressive about it!