Household Saints

Household Saints is a 1993 movie directed by Nancy Savoca, known for her unconventional storytelling methods. It tells an enchanting tale of three generations of a family, focusing on their spiritual experiences stemming from their Italian-American roots and the underlying complexity of their familial relationships.

In the movie, an interesting cast of characters takes the front seat, including Carmine Santangelo (Vincent D'Onofrio), his wife Catherine (Tracey Ullman), and their daughter, Teresa (Lili Taylor). All three offer captivating performances, capturing the viewers' attention right from the start.

Household Saints starts during the post World War II era, in New York City's Little Italy. We meet Carmine, who is smitten by Catherine, but her parents are against their union. In a bizarre twist, a card game becomes the deciding factor of their fate. After winning Catherine in a pinochle game, Carmine marries her, setting the ball rolling for the events that follow.

Tracey Ullman delivers an exceptional performance as Catherine, a woman who must navigate her new life married to Carmine, a man whose charm is coupled with a stubborn and traditional mindset. The evolving relationship between Carmine and Catherine is interesting to watch. Vincent D'Onofrio flawlessly portrays Carmine's character— a strong, silent type, providing the perfect counterpoint to Catherine's vibrancy.

Just when we believe the storyline to be settled around the newly married couple, in comes the next generation, their daughter Teresa, portrayed brilliantly by Lili Taylor. While Catherine and Carmine grappled with their marital existence, Teresa introduces a layer of mystical spiritualism to the plot. She is a unique character that develops a deep devotion to religious practices, bordering on obsession. This spiritual focus becomes a central theme of the movie, offering a pivot around which the family drifts and changes.

Household Saints is a family drama, but it's also a reflection on the role of faith, culture, and family ties in shaping our lives. It is set against the charming backdrop of New York's Little Italy, offering a realistic slice of life that spices up the storytelling. The characters' various experiences, their struggles, and even their everyday moments are intricately woven into the narrative, giving the film a flavorful cultural depth.

Without spoiling the plot, it's safe to say that the movie gradually transitions from a domestic drama to a sort of mystical exploration of faith. It takes us on a journey of beliefs, superstitions, miracles, and visions. The characters' understanding and practice of religion, including the Catholic faith, profoundly affects their lives, relationships, and even their worldview. The delicate balance between spirituality, religion, and reality is portrayed with sensitivity without leaning too much into either side. This makes the movie engaging even for those who might not share the same religious sentiments as the characters.

Indeed, what truly defines Household Saints is its immersive quality. The audience is allowed into the intimate spaces of the characters' lives — the dining room, the kitchen, the bedroom. We become part of their life experiences. We feel their joy, conflict, confusion and despair. Director Nancy Savoca masterfully uses these elements to create a compelling and engaging narrative that resonates on a personal level.

In conclusion, Household Saints is a riveting family drama layered with a smart exploration of faith, tradition, and interpersonal relationships. It's a thought-provoking masterpiece that caters to both the heart's emotions and the mind's intellectual curiosity. Savoca deftly crafts a plausible blend of normal life with elements of mysticism, while the talented ensemble gives justice to this unique narrative. Whether you're into family dramas, spiritual narratives, or simply appreciate finely-tuned performances, Household Saints is sure to engage, surprise, and stimulate thoughtful conversation.