Lilies of the Field

Lilies of the Field is a memorable film from 1963, starring the great Sidney Poitier, Lilia Skala, and Lisa Mann, among others. A directorial effort by Ralph Nelson, the movie is an enthralling portrayal of faith, grit, and human compassion.

The film begins with Homer Smith, a self-made travelling handyman, sauntering towards a remote Arizona desert. Smith is played by Sidney Poitier, whose spirited acting breathes life into the character. As a former soldier, Smith is resourceful, compelling, and dedulatesly striving for independence and self-fulfillment. One fated day, Smith's car breaks down near a small, isolated farm occupied by a group of German nuns. Here begins an extraordinary journey characterized by strenuous labor, language barriers, cultural variances, and emerging friendships.

Lilia Skala plays the role of Mother Maria, the head of the nuns residing in the farm. Her character is a determined, straight-talking woman whose unyielding devotion to her faith looms large throughout the film. Mother Maria views Smith's arrival as divine intervention. Under her supervision, the nuns have been attempting to construct a chapel, a task that has proven to be a challenge due to lack of manpower and resources. She interprets Smith's presence as a fortuitous sign and immediately persuades him to fix a roof. This single task sets a chain of events in motion, leading to Smith's temporary stay at the farm.

Smith, being a quintessential pragmatist and a non-Catholic, initially plans to work only for food and proper wages. However, Mother Maria, driven by her deep-rooted faith, barely understands the concept of income. She merely hands Smith a Bible to study and pray. As their relationship develops, Smith finds himself in sporadic conflict with Mother Maria over payment and the enormity of the task at hand. Despite these disagreements, a unique bond forms between the two, enveloping them in an empathetic understanding of each other's struggle.

The character of Lisa Mann, another one of the nuns at the farm, adds an element of simplicity and innocence to the narrative as she navigates the complexities of faith, language barrier, and cultural adaptability.

In the backdrop of a small, under-resourced farm and a drying desert, the narrative interestingly explores themes of diversity and unity. The film delves into the characters' varying perspectives on work, religion, and life. Yet, it beautifully brings out the universal message of humanity and the power of determination.

A highlight of the film is certainly Sidney Poitier's brilliant performance, a portrayal that won him an Academy Award for Best Actor. Through his character, Homer Smith, Poitier symbolizes the triumph of the human spirit amid adversity.

Lilies of the Field is notable for its simplicity of plot, minimalistic yet effective visuals, and impeccable acting prowess. The film captures the viewers' attention through its spirited representation of hope, willpower, and the inexplicable yet profound connection between the strangers who, by chance, cross each other's paths. While it emanates a sense of comfort and warmth, the narrative also subtly encourages viewers to contemplate the complexities of faith and culture.

The film, thus, is a stunning tale of perseverance and faith, showcasing how the strength of the human spirit can foster transformative change. Its raw, feel-good essence makes it an enduring classic. It offers much more than its simple narrative, stirring a profound exploration of culturally diverse characters in a shared setting, expertly demonstrating the compelling power of faith and determination.

Lilies of the Field is a heartfelt narrative that showcases the worlds of people colliding and the comradery that follows through a compelling lens. Sidney Poitier's virtuoso performance in tandem with a unique storyline makes it a cinematic experience that resonates deeply with viewers even after many years of its primary release. This film is a timeless depiction of belief, devotion, and the inherent goodness within the human spirit.