Chicago – This evening, Friday, January 2, Francesca Cabrini, the 2024 film directed by Alejandro Monteverde, will air in prime time and as a first television showing on Canale 5. The film is inspired by the extraordinary true story of the first U.S. citizen to be proclaimed a saint.
At the end of the 19th century, Francesca Cabrini, a determined and visionary Italian religious sister, arrives in New York to help thousands of Italian immigrants living in extreme poverty. In a world dominated by men and deep-rooted prejudice, Cabrini challenges institutions, political powers and cultural barriers to build schools, hospitals and charitable organizations. Hers is a battle fought with faith, courage and tireless dedication—one that would change the lives of entire communities.
The film tells a powerful true story, portraying the life of Mother Francesca Cabrini, canonized in 1946 and now a lasting symbol of solidarity and inclusion. Born Francesca Saverio Cabrini (Sant’Angelo Lodigiano, July 15, 1850 – Chicago, December 22, 1917), she was a religious sister, missionary and educator who became a naturalized U.S. citizen and founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
Directed by Alejandro Monteverde, best known for Sound of Freedom, the film delivers an intense and inspiring narrative centered on both human and spiritual values. Costumes, sets and locations faithfully recreate late 19th-century New York. The cast includes Cristiana Dell’Anna, John Lithgow, David Morse, Romana Maggiora Vergano and Giancarlo Giannini.
(9colonne)