Film Review — Visions of Ecstasy
The controversy surrounding this provocative short is probably more interesting than the film itself.
In the 16th century, St. Teresa experiences sexual fantasies involving a crucified Jesus Christ, as well as her own psyche.
Released in 1989 by Nunsploitation specialist (apparently, that’s a thing) Nigel Wingrove, Visions of Ecstasy is notorious as the only film banned in the UK on the grounds of blasphemy. The BBFC, fearing the short would be liable for prosecution for blasphemous libel, refused certification after determining cuts to ensure release would essentially cut in half its eighteen-minute runtime.
The film wouldn’t see an official release for nearly two decades, and even today comes with a very stern disclaimer, warning of “sex involving religious images”.
This notoriety has been shrewdly exploited by its distributor, who prominently featured two excerpts upon its home release artwork which perfectly sum up the wildly conflicting opinion you would expect something like this to conjure:
“It is a sick film involving violence and perversion. It is patently blasphemous and corrupting and should not be allowed on sale or to be viewed.”
Graham Bright, MP
“This film is not blasphemous and should be released.”
Rt. Reverand John Yates, Bishop of Gloucester
As is so often the way with films like this, the storm is usually much worse than what initially stirred it. Visions of Ecstasy is fine. Its erotica seems perfectly understandable, although mileage may vary depending on knowledge of its subject. More impressive than its seemingly endless writhing was Wingrove’s use of deeply saturated colour, creative use of lighting to mask what I’m sure was a pretty low budget, and Steven Severin’s dark ambient score, which felt distantly reminiscent of the mournful synths of Black Mirror’s San Junipero. A weird connection, I know.
It’s unlikely to be rewatched anytime soon, and it’s definitely not something to watch with your parents. But artistic expression is important and shouldn’t be denied. The fact this sat unreleased for over twenty years is insane, a sobering reminder of how weird our priorities can be.
★★★☆☆
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