The Penitent
Overview
The Penitent (1988) isn’t faith-affirming drama—it’s lurid exploitation mocking Catholic penitents. In a devout New Mexico/Mexico village reenacting Christ’s Passion (flagellation, crucifixion), jealous husband Ramon (Raúl Juliá) joins fanatical Penitentes while his virginal wife Celia falls for ex-con friend Juan (Armand Assante), sparking deadly love triangle amid rituals. Directed by Cliff Osmond, it sensationalizes "primitive brutal" self-mortification as barbaric cult, blending sex, betrayal, and gore—not exploring redemption or biblical penance. Secular gaze shames Hispanic Catholic traditions as repressed pathology. Cherry-picks extremism to caricature piety, ignoring healthy devotion. Obscure PG-13 thriller for grindhouse fans, not believers.
Top-billed cast
Crew
- Director
- Cliff Osmond
- Writer
- Cliff Osmond
- Production
- The Vista Organization, Ithaca
Frequently asked questions
What is The Penitent rated?
The Penitent has an audience rating of 6.6 out of 10 from 5 votes.
Who directed The Penitent?
The Penitent was directed by Cliff Osmond.
When was The Penitent released?
The Penitent was released in 1988.
