The Holy Office
El santo oficio
1974
Synopsis
A plague is spreading through 16th century Mexico, and The Spanish Inquisition is rooting out Jews, for they are believed to be its cause. At his father’s funeral, a monk observes his family practicing Jewish burial rites. He reports them, leading to devastating consequences for the whole family.
Editorial
Based on real transcripts of trials, Arturo Ripstein’s gripping, visually ravishing drama tells a shocking story of Jewish persecution in colonial Mexico. In competition for the Palme d’Or and a hit with critics, The Holy Office fiercely communicates Ripstein’s rejection of intolerance of any sort.
