The Monastery: Mr. Vig & the Nun

A nominee for both the Sundance Grand Jury Prize and an Independent Spirit Award, Pernille Rose Gronkjaer's documentary follows the unlikely late-life trajectory of octogenarian Jorgen Lauersen Vig, a retired priest and librarian. Vig is also the owner of the rundown Hesbjerg Castle in Denmark, which he wishes to donate to the Russian Orthodox Church to be used as a monastery. What Vig doesn't anticipate is the arrival of a group of nuns from Moscow—led by the no-nonsense Sister Amvrosija—who want to see specific repairs financed by Vig before any transfer can take place, setting the stage for a duel of stubborn yet articulate personalities. Vig, with his flowing white beard and stern façade, almost looks like an Orthodox icon come to life, but the tiny Amvrosija, while seemingly unassuming in appearance, is one tough cookie who isn't ready to turn the other cheek during confrontations. Although The Monastery might sound like an Odd Couple-style comedy, it often delves into uncomfortable psychoanalysis regarding Vig's harsh and solitary life, as he speaks openly about a bitterly unhappy childhood and an aversion to companionship. If Amvrosija has personal issues, they're not aired here, and that lack of balance regarding her background occasionally throws the film off-kilter. Nonetheless, this clash of personalities in an unusual setting makes for memorable viewing. Recommended. (P. Hall)