Absolution

Synopsis

Absolution is a 1978 British thriller directed by Anthony Page, featuring Richard Burton in a compelling role as a strict and enigmatic priest at a boys' boarding school. The film explores themes of guilt, secrecy, and morality as the priest becomes entangled in a web of lies and confessions when a violent crime is uncovered among the students. As he navigates the tension between his religious duties and the harsh realities facing the boys, the story delves into the complexities of forgiveness and judgment. Set against the austere backdrop of the school, Absolution combines suspenseful storytelling with introspective character study, making it a thought-provoking drama that challenges conventional notions of sin and redemption.

Cast

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  Richard Burton

  Father Goddard

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  Dominic Guard

  Benjamin 'Benjie' Stanfield

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  David Bradley

  Arthur Dyson

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  Billy Connolly

  Blakey

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  Andrew Keir

  Headmaster

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  Willoughby Gray

  Brigadier Walsh

Reviews

Absolution has received mixed to moderately positive reviews from critics and audiences alike. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 6.5/10 based on user reviews, reflecting a generally average reception. Some critics praised Richard Burton’s intense and nuanced performance, noting that he brings depth to the morally conflicted priest, which serves as the film’s strongest asset. The atmospheric direction and thoughtful screenplay were also acknowledged for effectively building suspense and moral ambiguity. However, certain reviewers on platforms like Rotten Tomatoes expressed that the pacing felt slow at times and that the film’s thematic exploration, while ambitious, sometimes bordered on heavy-handed. The lack of widespread critical aggregation on Rotten Tomatoes or Metacritic limits the breadth of consensus, but audience reactions often highlight the film’s classic thriller elements and vintage style as appealing to fans of atmospheric and character-driven dramas. In summary, Absolution is regarded as an intriguing but uneven film that offers compelling performances and a dense moral narrative that might not resonate with all viewers.