Perfect Obedience (Obediencia Perfecta) is a 2014 drama from Mexico, directed by Luis Urquiza. The picture concerns a religious seminary’s methods which are, unfortunately, real: it is a dramatization inspired by the Legionarios de Cristo order and its founder Marcial Maciel.
Synopsis
The action is focused on a priesthood aspirant, a thirteen-year-old boy called Julián, who is admitted to the seminary of Los Cruzados de Christo. There, under the care of the convincing F. Ángel de la Cruz, he is raised in the ideology of ‘perfect obedience’ – uncritical acceptance of an authority figure. While adjusting to this situation, ‘Julián’ tries to resolve moral questions and the issues of his church’s structure domination.
Cases
- Juan Manuel Bernal: as Padre Ángel de la Cruz
- Sebastián Aguirre: as Julian ‘Sacramento’ Santos (younger)
- Alfonso Herrera: as Julian ‘Sacramento’ Santos (older)
- Juan Ignacio Aranda: as Padre Galaviz
- Luis Ernesto Franco: as Padre Robles
- Miguel Ángel Loyo: as Andrés Lomelí
- Lucia Gonzalez de León: as Serva di Cristo
- Juan Carlos Colombo: Padre Ángel de la Cruz (old)
Accolades
This movie is well appreciated and has captivated viewers. In the Montreal World Film Festival, it took home the Grand Prix des Amériques.
Availability
Perfect Obedience is currently available for streaming on Tubi TV among many others and on Pluto TV.
It can also be leased or bought using Apple TV.
Critical Reception
The film earns a rating of 6.4 out of 10 in IMDB which is consistent with generally positive reviews.
Viewer Discretion
Because of the mature content such as abuse in the context of the Church, audience sensitivity is advised.