Francis of Assisi (1961)

Francis of Assisi tells the inspiring story of Giovanni di Pietro di Bernardone, the young son of a wealthy Italian merchant who abandons a life of comfort to follow a calling of radical poverty, humility, and devotion to God. After experiencing a spiritual awakening, Francis renounces his inheritance and embraces a life of simplicity, seeking to live out the teachings of Christ with sincerity and joy. Facing opposition from his family and skepticism from society, Francis gathers followers who share his vision of peace, compassion, and service to the poor. His journey eventually leads him to Rome, where he seeks approval from the Pope to establish what would become the Franciscan Order. This historical drama portrays the faith, sacrifice, and unwavering conviction of one of Christianity’s most beloved saints—a man remembered for his love of creation, his care for the marginalized, and his deep commitment to living the Gospel.