The 13th Day was released on DVD on December 1st. The term 13th Day refers to the series of six apparitions of Our Lady, beginning on May 13, 1917, on the thirteenth day of each month, ending on October 13, 1917 with the miracle of the sun visible to over 80,000 people, according to news reports. It has been fifty years since the last film on Fatima was made and this is a remarkable retelling of a true story.
The film begins with Sr. Lucia (the oldest of the three Fatima visionaries) at her cloistered convent in Spain writing her memoirs of the miracles that changed her life forever. But even before we see her writing at her desk in the dimly lit room, we hear angelic voices chanting, which draws us deeply into the mood of the story. Later in the film, the music becomes very eerie, particularly when we are given a glimpse of the children’s vivid vision of hell, which they witnessed on the 13th day in July.
The most striking aspect of The 13th Day is its dramatic cinematography. Most of the movie is shot in blackand white and there are ‘news reel shots’ of World War I, which make it appear to be a documentary. The black and white chiaroscuro effect emphasizes the dramatic suffering and sorrow that are part of the reality of the lives of the visionaries and their family members. It is only when Our Lady appears to the three children that we see color — in a very subtle, ethereal form — which reminds us of the supernatural, the light of her blinding beauty and the beauty that awaits us in heaven.
The three children actors were very impressive. They gave very natural, realistic performances, coming across as very courageous, sticking to the truth, despite the persecution and the death threats that they faced.
The 13th Day effectively conveys the messages of Fatima: peace will come about through prayer (specifically the rosary) and sacrifice, co-redemption is the mission of our baptism (through prayer and sacrifice sinners can be saved), and that Godliness will return to the world if we repent. The film also draws striking parallels between the condition of the world during 1917 and our own times — alerting us of the necessity to heed the messages of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
This film will appeal to a wide audience of any religion, not just Catholics because The 13th Day presents a message that is highly relevant to our times.
This film is highly recommended, but not for young children or very sensitive children due to scenes of hell and children being persecuted.
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