Every July, an international film festival takes place here in Marseille. It is called FIDMarseille. This festival celebrates independent cinema, featuring mostly low-budget, super creative, and experimental films that either critique societal issues or draw attention to aspects of life that often go unnoticed.

I am super lucky to work at this festival :) It’s an extraordinary experience, filled with insightful discussions with filmmakers, masterclasses, and informal, friendly moments.

One of the films that I loved most in this year’s selection is “Revelations of Divine Love” by Caroline Golum.

It was a fascinating revelation for me. I hadn’t heard of Julian of Norwich before, but the story I learned through the film inspired me to explore her life further and do additional research.

Julian lived in the 14th century, a time marked by plague, social upheaval, and institutional mistrust, as well as the violent suppression of heretics. When she was 30, she fell gravely ill and experienced sixteen profound visions of Christ’s suffering. After her recovery, she withdrew to a cell attached to St. Julian’s Church, where she spent the rest of her life in prayer and writing. Her work is called "Revelations of Divine Love". It is the earliest known book written by a woman and in English. The content of this book is truly extraordinary. Its central message emphasizes love as the foundational force of all creation.

As you can see, Julian’s story is incredibly inspiring and timely. And the film does it justice.

From the very first image and the very first sound, you can feel that it was created with LOVE. Love, which is also the main theme of Julian’s work. This love is evident in every meticulous detail, from the hand-built set and hand-painted medieval patterns to the outstanding work of the cast and crew.

In one of her interviews, Caroline said that it took them eight years to complete this film. Just imagine: despite the pandemic, despite all the challenges and funding issues, she never gave up! I remember the advice from a successful writer (I think it was Roderick Gordon): “If your project is not more important than anything else in your life, don’t bother.” For Caroline, this film was that important. And it really shows.

I loved how medieval life is portrayed in the film! Caroline mentioned that we often label the Middle Ages as “dark times” when people were illiterate and unwashed, but it clearly wasn’t so. I totally agree with her. I haven’t studied the Middle Ages yet, but in my current research on the ancient kingdom of Goguryeo, I see more and more evidence that yes, people lived differently and had different habits, but they weren’t more stupid than we are today. In many respects, they were smarter, more resourceful, and more adaptable than we are. If someone from the 21st century were to travel back to that era, we would likely find ourselves in greater difficulty than they would if they were suddenly transported to our time. We rely on automation and machines, whereas they excelled at utilizing nature and their own skills. Just look at the magnificent patterns and drawings that they created! Just look at their exquisite handwriting!

As you already know, I am a huge fan of handwriting. When I saw Julian handwriting, I was truly awed! The actress, Tessa Strain, told me that she completed a three-week special course to learn that particular style of writing! I mean, WOW! The scene is brief, but watching these letters appear on paper, stroke after stroke, is pure magic!

(this is a screenshot from the film - no copyright infringement intended)

Another aspect that resonated with me was the realism of Julian’s visions versus the real world she inhabits in the film. It’s a powerful way of showing that true peace arises from internal clarity rather than external stability. And of course, for every artist, visions often feel more real than life itself ;)

Music is another remarkable element of this masterpiece. It punctuates the film’s rhythm and perfectly enhances the atmosphere. I loved how the composer used electronic instruments and achieved the right balance! I hope the soundtrack will be released for purchase!

"Revelations of Divine Love" is a beautiful message of love, reminding us that art created in solitude can resonate in unpredictable ways. Also, it’s an inspiring example, a message of encouragement to all artists and creators:
“If you really want it, you will find a way.”

And, as Julian of Norwich said,

“All shall be well.”

~~~
P.S. If you want to learn more:
• More on Caroline's projects
• Revelations of Divine Love at FID Marseille