Directed by Franco Zeffirelli in 1972, Brother Sun, Sister Moon is freely inspired by the life of Saint Francis of Assisi and the formation of the Franciscan rule. It won the David di Donatello for Best Director and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Production Design. In 2024, a restored 4K version was presented to mark Zeffirelli’s centenary.
Francis, a wealthy and carefree young man and son of Pietro di Bernardone, returns from war deeply changed, driven by a new love for God that scandalizes his family. After publicly renouncing his possessions, he begins preaching and rebuilding a church with the poor. His first follower is his friend Bernardo, soon joined by others and by Clare of Assisi.
Their way of life quickly spreads in Assisi, inspiring many but also provoking hostility. After an attack and the death of a follower, Francis travels to Rome to meet Pope Innocent III. Despite initial resistance, the Pope recognizes the spiritual value of the movement and approves the new community, which becomes the Franciscan Order.