Perhaps the single greatest “saint” film of all time. It tells the spiritual life-story of Francesco Forgione, the 20th century Capuchin friar who becomes Padre Pio, spiritual father to many thousands of followers. It is not for the faint of heart, as its depictions of the spiritual battles are as intense and real as the spiritual victories, and both are symbolic of the lasting impact Pio left in this world.

One of the few great cinematic classics featuring a true American Saint, Abraham Lincoln. The movie follows the few months leading up the passage of the 13th amendment, and Lincoln’s death shortly thereafter. The dialogue of the fim is scriptural in nature, with scenes taking on expanded depth with each viewing. This film is likely the most watched movie in farmhouse cinema history. Daniel Day Lewis is a master of his craft as Father Abraham.

Has been deemed by some as a rare ‘perfect’ movie, and certainly, is for the whole family. Filmed on location in South Wales, Australia, it comes to life in a dreamlike setting centered around a farmer’s unexpected adoption of a very special pig. In having to find himself, while learning to navigate the various realities of the other farm animals and the humans, Babe ultimately becomes a hero to all through his kindness, righteousness, and purity of heart.

A musical film that has wonderfully pleasant and inspired music, acting, and story. It’s based on the true story of Maria Von Trapp, who becomes the governess of a family of seven children during the rise of Nazism in Austria prior to World War II. The music is fitting and not overdone, but rather adds charm and depth to the storytelling. Julie Andrews’ performance as Maria can not be described as anything but perfect, her voice sublime, and her warmth capable of softening every heart.    

An extremely well done modern day biopic on the rather extraordinary passing of the Pope baton, from Pope Benedict to Pope Francis in Feb, 2013. 

Anthony Hopkins’ performance as Benedict is for the ages. Benedict is the first Pope since 1294 to voluntarily resign his position. And his heir in Pope Francis is his ideological and philosophical opposite, making for tremendous dialogue and timeless debate between the two. 

This film is about the life of St. Nectarios of Aegina, a 19th-century Greek Orthodox heirarch, who exemplified the mercy and compassion of Christ while enduring a lifetime of persecution and slander from an envious church hierarchy. Aris Servetalis, who plays St. Nectarios, radiates simplicity and love throughout the movie. The slow, contemplative pacing of the film was especially enjoyable.

A very sweet, heartwarming movie about a fictional Pope Leo XIV’s journey to rediscover the meaning of life. Essentially cloistered in the Vatican, his main interactions are with rule-focused church bureaucrats. His soul yearns to connect with the world in a deeper way, so when he gets accidentally locked out of the Vatican, he takes it in stride as God’s Will and ventures out into the world as an ordinary man and eventually ends up in a small, remote Italian village. Tom Conti shines in the role as Pope Leo. He has a special, sincere humility and goodhearted-ness throughout his journey. 

This beloved classic never fails to delight. Packed with favorite lines and characters, it weaves a fantastical tale of love and honor through a captivating storybook world. Striking a perfect balance between heartfelt, fairy tale drama and quirky comedy, it’ll leave you feeling like a kid again.

A heartwarming wholesome film about Winnie the Pooh’s playmate Christopher Robin, who, no longer an innocent boy, has become a grownup faced with the stresses of adulting. It is filmed live action, with seamless integration of animated stuffed animals. Winnie the Pooh shares timeless wisdom, and reminds both Christopher Robin and watchers of the joys of staying childlike and simple.

This miniseries by Franco Zeffirelli is a must-see for spiritual aspirants. There is a palpable spiritual power and holiness that emanates throughout the film, affecting both the actors and audience alike. While the portrayal of Jesus and John the Baptist are perhaps a little otherworldly, the film nonetheless succeeds in teleporting the viewer to the Holy Land and making the story of the Gospels come alive.

A biopic film about the great father of modern day India, Mahatma Ghandi. The film takes you through the latter part of Ghandi’s life, beginning with his experience as a witness to the injustices of the Apartheid system in South Africa and his work as a lawyer there.  Here he experiments with non-violence (ahimsa) to protest against the discriminatory policies of the Apartheid government.  He eventually heads back home to India where he is welcomed as a hero and is then faced with a seemingly impossible task: liberating India from The great British Empire with non-violence alone. 

An unexpected favorite for the “Farmhouse Cinema,” this lighthearted and funny ’70s suburban story ends up tackling potent and inspiring themes. John Denver plays a simple and sincere grocery store manager who suddenly finds himself tasked by God (in a disarmingly unassuming form) to deliver His Word. Grappling with the whole range of reactions from within himself, his close relations, and the world at large, he discovers what it is to dedicate himself to absolute Truth.

No doubt the gold-standard for all Christmas movies, featuring one of the most wonderful closing scenes in cinema history. “All you can take with you is that which you’ve given away.” Pa Bailey

A 1940’s era quintessential Christmas classic. True to the spirit, fun and humorous, with subtle depth and spiritual purpose. 

“The main trouble is that there are too many people who don’t know where they’re going, and they want to get there too fast.”