
Novitiate (2017) is a powerful drama about a young woman's journey of faith and self-discovery. The film follows Cathleen, a teenage girl who is determined to become a nun despite her family's objections. As she struggles to find her place in the convent, she is confronted with the realities of life as a nun, including the sexual repression of the Catholic Church.
The film does not shy away from exploring the sexual aspects of the Catholic Church and its impact on the lives of young women. In one scene, Cathleen is asked to strip down to her underwear and is then subjected to a physical examination by a priest. This scene is particularly powerful as it highlights the power imbalance between the Church and its female members.
The film also explores the sexual repression of the Church through the character of Sister Irene. She is a nun who is struggling with her own sexuality and is forced to repress her desires in order to remain a nun. This repression is further highlighted when she is asked to take a vow of celibacy.
The film also touches on the issue of sexual abuse within the Church. Cathleen is subjected to inappropriate advances from a priest and is forced to confront the reality of sexual abuse within the Church. This scene is particularly powerful as it highlights the power imbalance between the Church and its female members.
Overall, Novitiate (2017) is a powerful exploration of faith, self-discovery, and the sexual repression of the Catholic Church. The film does not shy away from exploring the sexual aspects of the Church and its impact on the lives of young women. It is a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of faith and sexuality.
There are two scenes of masturbation in the film. The first, with Mary Grace, is short and shot entirely from the waist up however it is clear what his happening through arm movements and facial reaction. The other is significantly longer and consists of a facial close-up, with Cathleen. There is no nudity in these scenes.
An older nun bursts into the dining hall fully nude. We see her breasts and pubic region from a distance.
Sisters Cathleen and Emanuel passionately kiss and caress each other in an extended scene. However, it is not meant to be arousing but rather emotional.
Cathleen picks up a fallen crucifix in her room while fully undressed. Brief close-up of her breasts and hairy pubic region.