The Last Sin Eater

My mom recommended this movie to me. She said it was odd, but she thought I'd like it.

She was right (as she so often is). "The Last Sin Eater" was produced by Fox Faith. This is a division of Fox Studios that I didn't even know existed. Apparently they produce Faith-based movies. And judging by this one, they are unusual and good.

"The Last Sin Eater" deals with a small Welsh Appalachian community in the 1800's. The mountains prior to the 1800's were extremely isolated and settlers incorporated a lot of the beliefs they brought with them from the Old Country.

In this case, whenever someone died, the Last Sin Eater was summoned by the Passing Bell. During the funeral, held at night, he would come and give absolution to the dead person by symbolically eating his sins (bread and wine...sound familiar?). The Sin Eater was originally chosen by the menfolk of the community by lot.

The movie centers around a young girl who wants her sins eaten so she can live in peace. All throughout the movie, it is implied that she was responsible for some great tragedy and it haunted her throughout. She has a friend from a neighboring farm, whose father, played by Stuart Finley-McClellan is the Chief of the settlements and a horrid man to boot.

Louise Fletcher plays an old woman, the last one remaining from the original adult settlers. The kids turn to her for advice on finding the Last Sin Eater. It was an interesting role.

With many twists and turns and a good dose of catechism, "The Last Sin Eater" is something I recommend for nearly everyone. But remember, it is a Faith-based movie, so if that's not to your taste, then avoid it.

All in all, I want 0 hours back. It was well worth my time.

Next up, if I can summon the courage, is "Disturbia".