The Little Hours is a hilarious comedy film that explores the lives of nuns living in a convent during medieval times. The story follows three young nuns, played by Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, and Kate Micucci, as they struggle to deal with their mundane lives and the strict rules of their order.
The movie is based on The Decameron, a collection of novellas by Italian author Giovanni Boccaccio. Director Jeff Baena has taken these centuries-old stories and given them a modern twist, resulting in a witty and irreverent film that will leave audiences laughing out loud.
One of the main reasons why The Little Hours works so well as a comedy is because it plays with our expectations of nuns and the Catholic Church. The film presents these characters in an unorthodox way, showing them as flawed and human, rather than the pious, chaste women we might expect them to be. This subversion of expectations leads to some truly hilarious moments, such as when the nuns swear like sailors or engage in wild partying.
Another factor that contributes to the success of this comedy is the talented cast. Each of the three leads brings their unique comedic flair to their performances. Alison Brie plays the uptight Sister Alessandra, whose repressed desires for a life beyond the convent lead her down a dangerous path. Aubrey Plaza is perfect as Sister Fernanda, a rebellious and foul-mouthed nun who becomes embroiled in a forbidden love affair. Finally, Kate Micucci shines as the innocent and naive Sister Ginerva, who gets caught up in the craziness around her.
In addition to its excellent cast, The Little Hours also benefits from a solid script that doesn't hold back on the humor. The dialogue is sharp and witty, and there are plenty of outrageous situations that lead to laugh-out-loud moments. One particular scene involving a hallucinogenic mushroom feast is both hilarious and surreal, showcasing Baena's ability to craft absurd scenarios that somehow still feel grounded in reality.
Overall, The Little Hours is a great example of how humor can be used to explore serious themes. Although the movie is primarily a comedy, it also touches on issues such as sexual repression, religious dogma, and the limitations placed on women during medieval times. By weaving these weighty topics into its comedic narrative, the film manages to be both thought-provoking and entertaining.
In conclusion, The Little Hours is a superb comedy that offers a fresh take on historical fiction. With its talented cast, clever script, and quirky humor, the movie is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good laugh. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be thoroughly entertained by this irreverent gem of a film!