Once again, I had the pleasure of joining the hosts of Criteria: The Catholic Film Podcast to discuss a film from the Vatican’s 1995 list of outstanding films. This time, it happened to be Andrei Rublev (1966), my favourite film of all time (it’s in a perpetual neck and neck with The Tree of Life).
Our discussion includes:
The most surprising difference between the 205 minute original cut and the 183 minute censored cut - I watched both versions in close succession for this recording and was astonished at what I found.
The importance of giving yourself space to prepare for a first viewing of Andrei Rublev
Andrei Tarkovsky’s profound respect for his audience and their ability to handle poetic cinema
Whether the film’s modern theological outlook is of the film itself or simply a character trait
Was the film’s use of nudity and mistreatment of animals justified?
This was a joy to discuss. We go long and meander a fair amount, but, speaking for myself, it’s hard to condense a film that has shaped my life as powerfully and consistently as this one has. I’ve seen the film about six times now, twice in its restored, censored 183 minute version and four times in its 205 minute original version. I hope you enjoy it, but even more so, I hope you make time to visit (or revisit) Andrei Rublev in the near future.
Check it out on Youtube, Apple Podcasts, or wherever your podcasts find you.