| Reviewed on 2003-09-30 |
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| This film follows 3 young women in the early 60's who find themselves imprisoned in an Irish Magdalene Laundry run by Roman Catholic nuns. Margaret (Anne-Marie Duff) was raped by her cousin. Rose (Dorothy Duffy) had a child out of wedlock. Bernadette (Nora-Jane Noone) is a virginal orphan whose only offense is being pretty which could lead her to sin. The mother superior (Geraldine McEwan) seems cruel and almost witchlike. She informs the girls that their families have committed them for their sinful ways. The girls are forced to work 6 days a week in the laundry and any complaints lead to punishment. They can't even talk to each other. Bernadette is the ringleader and contemplates a breakout. Come see what happens. History shows that the Magdalene System perpetuated many abuses. The film is somewhat controversial and the Catholic Church feels it is too harsh although they admitted the Magdalene laundries operated until 1996. They represented one of the networks of institutions to which wayward young women were sent by their disapproving families. Powerful film and a must see! |
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