Film

Film Detail

Black Narcissus

Dir. Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger
GB, 1949, 100 mins

Cast: Deborah Kerr, Flora Robson, Jean Simmons, David Farrar, Sabu, Esmond Knight

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A group of nuns is despatched to the Himalayas where they face every challenge to their faith, ranging from local superstition and politics, to the temptations of the flesh. While a phenomenal masterpiece of direction, Black Narcissus is also an outstanding tribute to the artistry of cinematographer Jack Cardiff who won the Oscar for this extraordinary work. The visual splendour perfectly underlines the threat of sexuality which finally defeats 'civilisation'. And, unbelievably, cast and crew never left the UK to shoot any part of the film.

'You could show it backwards and out of focus, and the control of colour, composition and movement would still look brilliant.' – Chris Peachment, Time Out