Francesco
St. Francis of Assisi's (1181-1226) life as told by followers who gathered after his death to tell stories so Leone could record them: a privileged and virile youth, a prisoner of war, an heir who turns away from his father and gives everything to the poor, a beggar for others, and an inspiration to friends who accept the Gospels' life of poverty. He seeks the Pope's favor and is persecuted by the family of Chiara Offreduccio(1194-1253), afterwards known as St. Clare. Many people join the organization he has formed, only to later revolt against his demands. He crafts a Rule to take to the Pope in near despair-and while ill-and then the Lord sends him a message. He smiles as he passes away.
Released: 1989-03-22
Genre:
Drama