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38 of 40 people found the following review helpful: Lessons in Faith, October 5, 2006 By  Zinta Aistars "Writer & Editor" (Portage, MI United States) - See all my reviews    Surely most everyone has at least some sketchy knowledge of the legacy of Mother Teresa. There is great power in grace, in kindness, in doing good unto others with little or no regard for oneself. But I've long been curious to know more: who is this selfless woman? is it really possible to be completely altruistic? or, is doing good for the pleasure it brings us to be good, or for our reward in the afterlife, motive that negates true altruism? and, what kind of background gave birth to such a modern-day saint? The movie, "Mother Teresa," directed by Fabrizio Costa and with Olivia Hussey in the lead role, did little to answer any of these questions for me. Indeed, that it begins with Mother Teresa already in Calcutta as a nun, quite disappointed me. I gained no knowledge of what kind of background had formed this remarkable woman. Nevertheless, I was enthralled. Hussey's careful and completely believable portrayal (the viewer forgets it is an actress on the screen and not indeed Mother Teresa herself, which is surely the goal of any actor) matched any actual history I had glimpsed in media during the latter years of her life. From what was shown in this portrayal did entice to find out more. This woman is surely as awe-inspiring as I had expected. I found myself thinking back to this movie, to her life and her deep faith, days, even weeks, after watching it. In an age of violence and self-indulgence, of pleasure seeking and materialism, to view this life and all the lives affected by hers lifts one out of the mire for a moment and gives great pause. We can do better. Mother Teresa teaches us not with words but with actions. How she lived her life, devoted to helping those who were too weak or poor to help themselves, in a manner of strength and simplicity, unfalteringly trusting that God will provide, inspires all, and of whatever belief system. Highly recommended.  Comment (1) | Permalink | Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful: A Beautiful Film In Which Every Viewer Can Benefit From Watching, September 17, 2007 By  Craig Connell (Lockport, NY USA) - See all my reviews    Wow, what a nice movie! It exceeded my expectations. Most "religious" films don't have the funding for first-class production values, but this one must have because it looks great. That beautiful photography throughout the 115 minutes was one of the two biggest reasons I enjoyed watching this. The other was the number of profound truths said by Mother Teresa (Olivia Hussey). This was an inspiring film with some great statements. By the way, those production values included decent acting, too, at least by all of the adults. Some of the kids were so-so, but they didn't have many lines anyway. What I appreciated what that the filmmakers did not water down the Christian aspect of Mother Teresa's life. Everything she said and did was for God's glory, as she states several times, only trying to please Jesus. Obviously, she succeeded like few others have with an amazing compassion and selfless attitude. There is no ego here, no pride, only what she can do for the sick and poverty-stricken. This movie can be enjoyed by all. You don't have be a Catholic. I'm not, and I have total respect for Mother Teresa and cannot find fault with anything she said or did. For Believers, this should inspire them to act a little more Christ-like. For non-believers, this story is a great example for anyone who simply needs a nudge to go help someone less fortunate. There is no heavy-handing "preaching," either, for those concerned about that matter. This is simply a quality film about an extremely quality person whose life should inspire all of us to become better people. This film did a great job in that respect.  Comment | Permalink | Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)

28 of 32 people found the following review helpful: Olivia Hussey is still lovely . . ., June 30, 2006 By  Timothy D. Naegele (Washington, D.C. and Los Angeles) - See all my reviews    More than twenty-five years before, Olivia Hussey was just as lovely when she played the Virgin Mary in Franco Zeffirelli's "Jesus of Nazarus," and did so brilliantly. She reprised the beauty of that performance in "Mother Teresa," which is timeless too. Serving the poor in Calcutta for most of her life, this Saint brought hope to those who had none and taught Jesus' Love to those who had seldom if ever experienced love before. She received a Nobel Prize, but no earthy honor was her reward. Her faith truly found a way when there appeared to be none at all.  Comment | Permalink | Was this review helpful to you? (Report this)