Noomi Rapace to portray Mother Teresa in ‘Mother’: A fresh take on a complex figure
A new perspective on a revered icon
Noomi Rapace, known for her roles in The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo and Prometheus, is set to take on the role of Mother Teresa in the upcoming film Mother. This film, directed by North Macedonian filmmaker Teona Strugar Mitevska, promises to offer a unique and unconventional portrayal of the Catholic saint, focusing on a pivotal week in her life before she became the iconic figure we know today.
A departure from the traditional biopic
Rapace, speaking at the Sarajevo Film Festival where she serves on a competition jury, expressed her excitement about the project. She emphasized that Mother is not a typical biopic. “She was no saint,” Rapace remarked, highlighting the complexity of Mother Teresa’s character. The film will explore Teresa’s decision to leave the Loreto Entally convent in Calcutta to start her own order, a move that required permission from the Vatican and was unprecedented at the time.
A personal connection
Rapace, who left her family in Sweden at the age of 15, feels a personal connection to Teresa’s story. “I’ve felt like I’m against all odds many times and finding my voice and myself in different foreign situations,” she shared. This personal experience allows Rapace to relate to Teresa’s determination and conviction, even in the face of significant challenges.
The darkness within
One of the intriguing aspects of the film is its exploration of Teresa’s inner struggles. Rapace noted that Teresa often spoke about her doubts and darkness. “She once said, ‘If I will ever become a saint, it will surely be one of darkness,’ which is very powerful,” Rapace reflected. This focus on Teresa’s internal conflicts adds depth to the character and sets the film apart from more sanitized portrayals.
A collaboration of passion
Rapace praised Mitevska as an “incredible filmmaker” with a “punky passion” for storytelling. The director’s approach to the story is anything but polite, and both Rapace and Mitevska share a connection to Teresa’s determined stubbornness. “You keep fighting for something you believe in, even if everyone is telling you it’s not going to happen,” Rapace said, echoing the spirit of the film.
From Sarajevo to Calcutta
Mitevska, who was in Sarajevo to pitch another project, left the festival to finalize locations for Mother in Calcutta. The film’s production is set to begin on September 23 in Belgium, where the interiors will be filmed, before moving to India. Mitevska described the film as a snapshot of one week in Teresa’s life, aiming to demystify the person behind the myth and present her as a highly intelligent, ambitious woman with a great heart.
A rebel with a cause
Born in North Macedonia, the same birthplace as Teresa, Mitevska was inspired by a docuseries she shot for Macedonian television over a decade ago. She recognized Teresa not just as a religious icon but as an empowering female figure with a “rebel punk rock energy.” This energy, Mitevska believes, made Teresa a general of an army of women, spreading her influence like a virus.
An international collaboration
Mother is a five-country co-production involving Macedonia’s Sisters and Brother Mitevski, Belgium’s Entre Chien et Loup, Denmark’s Frau Film, the Netherlands’ Baldar Film, and Sweden’s Spark Film & TV and Film i Väst. This international collaboration underscores the global significance of Teresa’s story and the universal themes of determination and compassion.
A film to watch
As the Sarajevo Film Festival runs from August 16 to 23, anticipation builds for Mother. This film promises to offer a fresh and nuanced portrayal of Mother Teresa, shedding light on her complexities and inner struggles. For those interested in exploring this unique take on a revered figure, keep an eye out for Mother and experience a story of determination, faith, and the human spirit.
For more information and to watch the trailer, visit Mother.
Reflections for cinema and TV series enthusiasts
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, the prospect of seeing Noomi Rapace delve into the role of Mother Teresa is thrilling. Rapace’s ability to bring depth and nuance to her characters, combined with Mitevska’s bold directorial vision, promises a film that challenges conventional narratives. This project is a reminder of the power of cinema to explore the multifaceted nature of iconic figures, offering new insights and perspectives.
For those who appreciate films that push boundaries and offer fresh takes on well-known stories, Mother is a must-watch. The collaboration between Rapace and Mitevska, along with the film’s international production team, highlights the global appeal and relevance of Teresa’s story. As we await the film’s release, it’s worth reflecting on the themes of determination, faith, and the human spirit that resonate across cultures and time.
Stay tuned for more updates and be sure to check out the trailer for a glimpse into this compelling portrayal of Mother Teresa.