Simon of the Desert

Simon of the Desert

Release Date:  8/27/1965
Country of Release:  Mexico
Length:  43 minutes
MPAA:  NR
Medium:  Video
Genre:  COM DRA
Release Message:  Simon, a deeply religious man living in the 4th century, wants to be nearer to God so he climbs a column. Directed and co-written by Luis Bunuel.
Description:  Simon, a deeply religious man living in the 4th century, wants to be nearer to God so he climbs a column. The Devil wants him to come down to Earth and is trying to seduce him. Simon (Claudio Brook) stands on top of a stone column in the middle of the desert and prays for six years, six weeks and six days. In that time, he becomes something of a saint to his people, praised for his unwavering devotion and ability to perform grand miracles in God's name. Despite Simon's counsel and ceaseless penance on their behalf, his followers seem doomed to crumble to temptation. And Simon remains plagued by unrest, uncertainty and the devil herself (Silvia Pinal). The ascetic Sim—n believes he is a sinner and decides to self-inflict a sacrifice, living like a hermit on the top of a pedestal in the middle of the desert to be closer to God and resist the temptations of the world. His followers are peasants and travelers that believe that Sim—n is a saint capable of performing miracles and they crowd to hear his speeches. However, Satan tries to tempt him with the pleasures of the world.