After two decades in a Belarusian Orthodox monastery, Vera reflects on her unexpected path to nunhood, rooted in a history of addiction. Facing her lingering guilt, she finds herself at a crossroads between her monastic sanctuary and an uncertain future. With a poignant gaze, Vera’s quiet journey of self-examination offers an intimate glimpse into the complexities of faith, recovery, and personal transformation within cloistered walls.
Winner of the best documentary award at the BFI London Film Festival.

Mother Vera
2024
94 min.
Documentary
United Kingdom
United Kingdom, documentary, religion, female directors, female-centric, international film festivals, awarded films
P&B
Cécile EmbletonAlys Tomlinson
Cécile Embleton, Alys Tomlinson
Romain Beck, Cécile Embleton
Laura Shacham
She Makes Productions
49, 49