The Small Film Review: Ave Maryam (2018)
Gems of the highest clarity exist even on Netflix. This Indonesian film directed by Ertanto Robby Soediskam is about Maryam, a religious sister who is no longer young but is nonetheless younger than the women around her, some of whom grow confused and need her help bathing. When a new pastor with a passion for music arrives, the mutual attraction threatens their vows of celibacy. A plot like that could turn out awful, but the camera keeps a respectful distance: You sit in the audience as scenes unfold before you, rare the close-up and nonexistent the gimmick. As loving but less voyeuristic than Wong Kar-Wai, Ave Maryam’s hush is punctuated by moments of intense emotion and striking beauty. Rating: 5/5