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Poster for Black Narcissus

Black Narcissus

Seen it?

1947 | 100 min | Drama

Friday Night Flick

Why it’s a Friday Night Flick

Critics loved it (100% on Rotten Tomatoes), it won 3 Oscars and it's still drawing plenty of interest. Make plans for this one.

Based on critics, audiences, awards, box office and buzz. Details below.

Is it for you?

Who'll love it
Made for anyone who loves a strong drama. Critics rate it higher than audiences do, so it rewards patience more than it chases thrills.
The mood
Thoughtful and character-driven.
The pace
Takes its time with its characters, at 1 hr 40 min.
What might put you off
  • Made in 1947: an older pace and style.
  • Audiences were cooler on it than critics.

A group of Anglican nuns, led by Sister Clodagh, are sent to a mountain in the Himalayas. The climate in the region is hostile and the nuns are housed in an odd old palace. They work to establish a school and a hospital, but slowly their focus shifts. Sister Ruth falls for a government worker, Mr. Dean, and begins to question her vow of celibacy. As Sister Ruth obsesses over Mr. Dean, Sister Clodagh becomes immersed in her own memories of love.

How it earned its rating

  • CriticsVery strong

    100% on Rotten Tomatoes, 86 on Metacritic

  • AudiencesSolid

    7.5 out of 10

  • AwardsVery strong

    Won 3 Oscars: Best Production Design, Best Cinematography, Color, Best Art Direction, Color.

  • Reach & staying powerBelow par

    Streaming release that reached a modest audience

  • Buzz & cultural impactStrong

    About 217K people sought it out in the past year

Trailer

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Cast & crew

Directed by Michael Powell, Emeric Pressburger

  • Deborah KerrSister Clodagh
  • SabuThe Young General
  • David FarrarMr. Dean
  • Flora RobsonSister Philippa
  • Esmond KnightThe Old General
  • Jean SimmonsKanchi
  • Kathleen ByronSister Ruth
  • Jenny LairdSister Honey
  • Judith FurseSister Briony
  • May HallattAngu Ayah