"An unusual depiction of Mother Teresa, titled 'Mother', inaugurates the section"

In the heart of the Venice Film Festival 2025, a remarkable film took centre stage. "Mother," directed by Macedonian filmmaker Teona Strugar Mitevska, was the inaugural film in the Orizzonti section.

The film, a departure from the traditional biopic format, centres around Teresa, the superior mother of the Loreto convent in Calcutta. Noomi Rapace, known for her powerful performances, takes on the title role of Mother Teresa. Accompanying her in the film are Sylvia Hoeks and Nikola Ristanovski, who were also present at the premiere.

"Mother" is set in Calcutta in August 1948, and the story unfolds over a few critical days in Teresa's life. The film presents a dilemma that tests her faith and ambitions, offering a unique perspective on the life of this iconic figure.

The film's opening scenes are striking, with Mother looking directly into the audience's eyes. This unconventional approach sets the tone for the rest of the film, which deviates from the typical biopic structure.

"Mother" also stands out for its unorthodox score, featuring hard rock music. This unexpected choice adds a layer of intensity to the film, further emphasising the challenges Teresa faces.

Teona Strugar Mitevska, who has previously directed films such as "God is a Woman and Her Name is Petrunya" (2019) and "The Appointment" (2022), has once again demonstrated her ability to craft compelling and thought-provoking films.

In addition to "Mother," the Venice Film Festival 2025 featured other notable films, including "Grace" by Paolo Sorrentino. The festival, known for showcasing the best in international cinema, provided a platform for these captivating stories to be shared with audiences worldwide.

Meanwhile, Teresa, the central character in "Mother," is waiting for a letter that will allow her to leave the monastery and create a new order in response to a call from God. The fate of this extraordinary woman and her journey will undoubtedly captivate audiences, making "Mother" one of the most anticipated films of the year.

"An unusual depiction of Mother Teresa, titled 'Mother', inaugurates the section"