Lilies of the Field

Director: Ralph Nelson

Overview

In this film, a traveling laborer meets five nuns in the Arizona desert. The appearance of Homer Smith convinces the Mother Superior he is an answer to her prayers. He wins the hearts of the nuns and the thanks of the town, as initial reluctance turns into public acceptance.

Product Details

Release Date:	10/27/2015
UPC:	0738329163723
Original Release:	1963
Rating:	NR
Region Code:	1
Presentation:	[B&W, Wide Screen]
Sound:	[Dolby Digital Stereo]
Language:	English
Time:	1:35:00
Sales rank:	4,469

Cast & Crew

Performance Credits

Sidney Poitier	Homer Smith
Lilia Skala	Mother Maria
Lisa Mann	Sister Gertrude
Stanley Adams	Juan
Isa Crino	Sister Agnes
Francesca Jarvis	Sister Albertine
Pamela Branch	Sister Elizabeth
Dan Frazer	Priest
Ralph Nelson	Mr. Ashton
Lilia	Actor
Bobby Driscoll	Young Mexican Holding Chapel Door
Jerry Goldsmith	Composer

Technical Credits

James Poe

James Poe	Screenwriter
Ralph Nelson	Producer
J. Paul Popkin	Producer

Scene Index

Disc #1 -- Lilies of the Field
1. Chapter 1 [:11]
2. Chapter 2 [15:07]
3. Chapter 3 [11:29]
4. Chapter 4 [11:36]
5. Chapter 5 [14:15]
6. Chapter 6 [12:03]
7. Chapter 7 [10:31]
8. Chapter 8 [9:41]
9. Chapter 9 [9:40]

Menu

Disc #1 -- Lilies of the Field
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Chapters
Bonus
Lilies Of The Field Trailer
They Call Me Mr. Tibbs Trailer
The Organization Trailer
Duel At Diablo Trailer
Subtitles
English Subtitles
English Subtitles: On
English Subtitles: Off
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Editorial Reviews

Lilies of the Field was more important historically than it may seem when viewed today. What works about the film is the interplay between Sidney Poitier and Lilia Skala, and the recurrent theme of faith that evolves from their friendship. While it may have been cutting-edge in 1964 for the Academy to give its Best Actor Oscar to an African-American actor (the only time in the 20th century that this award was given to an African-American), the story is only superficially about racial issues. This is the sort of safe depiction of a black protagonist that was considered palatable for white audiences in the 1960s. Not until black directors went behind the camera later in the decade would more challenging films (and less safe roles for black performers) evolve. The film has considerable dramatic power, like The Sound of Music without music. The primary themes are the importance of religious life, and the transformation of those who accept it. Formulaic storytelling notwithstanding, Poitier's performance is outstanding, and the film has a charm that overcomes its several weaknesses.