The Catholics

About This Movie

The Catholics is an intriguing blend of drama and speculative fiction, all wrapped up in a 1970s TV movie aesthetic. Directed by Jack Gold, it’s set in a future where the Church has softened its stances, and some Irish monks simply can’t take it. The atmosphere feels quite somber yet reflective, with a pacing that invites contemplation rather than action. Performances are quite strong, especially from the leads, who embody the struggle between tradition and modernity. The practical effects are minimal but effective, mainly relying on strong dialogue and character interactions to carry the weight of the story. It’s a interesting piece that doesn’t fit neatly into any one genre, which is part of its charm.

Originally aired as a TV movie on CBSNot widely available on home video formatsFeatures a score by composer Paul McCartneyExplores themes of faith vs. modernity