“The Saint of Meat” – A Docufilm Exploration of Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori’s Life and Legacy
A new docufilm titled “The Saint of Meat” offers a captivating cinematic journey into the life and enduring influence of Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori. Actor Enrico Lo Verso embodies the revered saint, giving voice and presence to a figure known as the “Doctor of the Church.”
The film, directed by Giuseppe Alessio Nuzzo, takes audiences on an unforgettable odyssey through the life of Saint Alphonsus. Utilizing a first-person narrative intertwined with the insights of those continuing his teachings today, the film seamlessly blends historical reconstructions with testimonials from religious figures, scholars, musicians, and even everyday individuals.
Nuzzo describes the film’s genesis as stemming from a profound need “to make Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori known, his work and his theological and spiritual testament starting from that song that we all know, which belongs to everyone’s imagination, that we keep in the drawer of emotions linked to the holiest day of the year”
An Imaginary Autobiography
Structured like an “imaginary autobiography, a poetic journey between earthly events, works, testimonies and the spiritual legacy of Alfonso Maria de Liguori,” the film unfolds through seven poignant chapters: “The man,” “The missionary priest,” “The new theologian,” “The artist,” “The Bishop,” “The Humorist,” and “The mentor.”
Each chapter is enriched by meticulously crafted historical reconstructions, the work of esteemed costume designers and set designers. The 100% Campanian technical team lends its expertise to create visually compelling representations of Saint Alphonsus’ world.
Supplementing these historical reconstructions are compelling interviews with a diverse tapestry of voices: a musician, a painter, a jurist, a history professor, a student, a priest, a nun, and a bishop. Their interwoven stories create a chorus of perspectives, capturing the profound impact of Saint Alphonsus across different spheres of life.
Musical Soul
Jovannia Sannino portrays Sister Maria Teresa de Liguori, while Marco Panico brings the character of the young Alfonso to the screen. The evocative soundtrack, composed by Enzo Avitabile, an admirer and devotee of the saint, further enhances the film’s emotional resonance.
Inspired by a Pastoral Letter
“The Saint of Meat” draws inspiration from the 2014 pastoral letter “In dialogue with Saint Alphonsus,” penned by Msgr. Antonio Di Donna, bishop of Acerra and president of the Campania Episcopal Conference. This insightful letter, which offers a contemporary perspective on Saint Alphonsus’ teachings, serves as a foundational element in shaping the film’s narrative.
Through its compelling narrative, stunning visuals, and profound insights, “The Saint of Meat” offers a deeply moving exploration of Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori’s life and enduring legacy. The film is set to premiere on December 5th.
How does the film “The Saint of Meat” use creative narrative techniques to tell the story of Saint Alphonsus?
## Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori Comes to the Big Screen
**Joining us today is film critic Emily Carter to discuss the new docufilm exploring the life of Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori.**
**Emily, thanks for joining us.**
**Emily:** Thanks for having me.
**Now, this film brings to life the story of Saint Alphonsus, a figure perhaps not as well-known to a general audience. Can you tell us a little about him?**
**Emily:** Absolutely.
Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori was a 18th-century Italian bishop and theologian. He founded a religious order, wrote extensively on moral theology and devotional practices, and was eventually declared a Doctor of the Church [[1](https://mycatholic.life/saints/saints-of-the-liturgical-year/august-1-st-alphonsus-liguori/)].
**And the film, “The Saint of Meat,” seems to be taking a unique approach to his story.**
**Emily:** It really does.
It’s structured as an “imaginary autobiography,” blending historical reconstructions and interviews with people inspired by Saint Alphonsus today. The title itself, “The Saint of Meat,” is intriguing, as it refers to a popular Neapolitan song associated with Good Friday, which highlights Saint Alphonsus’s connection to the daily lives of ordinary people.
**What can viewers expect to glean from this film?**
**Emily:** Aside from a deeper understanding of Saint Alphonsus’s life and accomplishments, the film promises to explore the enduring relevance of his teachings. We hear from a wide range of voices – religious figures, scholars, musicians – who shed light on how his work resonates today, even centuries after his death.
**It sounds like a fascinating look into a figure who made a significant impact on both religious and social spheres.**
**Emily:** Definitely.
Director Giuseppe Alessio Nuzzo was passionate about making Saint Alphonsus known to a wider audience, and “The Saint of Meat” seems to be a powerful and thought-provoking tribute to his legacy.
