This beautifully filmed documentary explores the miraculous origins of the image of the Virgin Mary on a peasant's tilma (cloak), which is displayed today in Mexico City's Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Backed by dramatic re-enactments, historic documents, and animated maps, the current rector of the church describes how the Virgin appeared to a man named Juan Diego in December 1531, impressing her image upon his garment as a sign to take back to the disbelieving bishop. Assorted experts describe scientific analyses of the imprinted figure: no known type of paint can be detected on the piece, and the fabric not only seems impervious to natural decay, but has also survived exposure to acid and a bomb blast. In addition, stars appearing on the Virgin's robe coincide with constellations as they appeared in the night sky in December 1531, while under magnification the Virgin's eyes reveal miniscule forms believed to be historically accurate representations of people alive at the time. The film also looks at a small carved representation of the Virgin known as the Extremadura statue and explains how the culturally important Guadalupe became a major pilgrimage site. Sure to be of interest to believers, Guadalupe also touches on important aspects of Catholic and Mexican history. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (M. Puffer-Rothenberg)
Guadalupe: A Living Image
(2010) 52 min. DVD: $24.95. Studio 3 TV (dist. by Janson Media). PPR. ISBN: 978-1-56839-342-3. Volume 26, Issue 2
Guadalupe: A Living Image
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