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The Pastor of Reigi

1978Movie1 h 19 min

DramaRomance
67
GoodGoodWatch score
IMDb6.4

A deeply moving, profoundly sad drama movie about faith and meaning and history, with standout cinematography and world-building.

Good for friends night · thought-provoking · adults

Skip it if you want something to laugh at · you need an uplifting mood · you want fast pacing

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Not for laughs, warmth or adrenaline.

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Story

Pastor Paul Lempelius comes to the island of HIiumaa that seems to be like the world's end. While serving the pastorate of Reigi in spirit and in truth, Lempelius hopes to get rid of the burden of destiny. However, the local people favour pagan traditions and distrust the strict kingdom of God that Lempelius teaches them. The pastor's beautiful yet childless wife Catharina yearns for joy of life and tenderness that she won't receive from his husband. Instead, a young assistant pastor Jonas Kempe offers her his love. Their love, disregarding all laws, and the primal lifestyle of the islanders will become the touchstone for Lempelius' redemption.

Feels like

  • Estonian Art House Cinema
  • Religious Conflict & Doubt
  • Somber Island Atmosphere
  • Tragic Love Triangle
  • Historical Drama
  • Psychological Introspection
  • Pagan vs. Christian Tension
  • Meditative Pacing
  • Visually Poetic
  • Existential Melancholy

Cast

13 of 13

Crew

Directed by
Jüri Müür
Written by
Aino Kallas, Valentin Kuik
Produced by
Raimund Felt
Music by
Eino Tamberg

Everyone

Pick a department, or search for a name or a job (“editor”, “stunt”).

Facts

February 27, 1978 · 1 h 19 min · Sexual Content, Strong Language

Released
February 27, 1978
Runtime
1 h 19 min
Content
Sexual Content, Strong Language
Genres
Drama, Romance
Original language
Estonian
Made in
Russia

Q&A

4 questions, like "Is The Pastor of Reigi worth watching?"

Questions about The Pastor of Reigi

Quick answers from GoodWatch data.

Is The Pastor of Reigi worth watching?

67
GoodGoodWatch score

Mostly, it's well received, with a GoodWatch score of 67 (IMDb 6.4).

Is The Pastor of Reigi good for date night?

Partner WatchAdultsFriends NightPublic Viewing SafeSolo Watch

It suits a quiet night in as a couple: romance is 8 of 10, but the viewing guide doesn't list it for date night.

Is The Pastor of Reigi plot-driven or character-driven?

CharactersPlot

Mostly character-driven: it leans on pathos (9 of 10) and character depth (8 of 10) more than on its plot.

Is The Pastor of Reigi in English?

Estonian

No, it was made in Estonian.