The Little Hours (2017)

The Little Hours is a 2017 comedy film that blends medieval history with a sharp, irreverent sense of humor. Directed by Jeff Baena and co-written by Baena and Alison Brie, the movie offers a unique take on the lives of three nuns living in a convent during the Middle Ages. The film is celebrated for its unconventional storytelling, playful dialogue, and fantastic performances by a stellar cast.

Plot Overview

The Little Hours is set in 14th-century Italy and revolves around a young servant named Massetto, played by Dave Franco. After fleeing from an angry landowner—whom he had a run-in with due to theft—Massetto seeks refuge at a remote convent. The convent, however, is not the holy sanctuary one might expect. Instead, it is inhabited by three eccentric and mischievous nuns: Sister Fernanda (Alison Brie), Sister Ginevra (Kate Micucci), and Sister Carla (Aubrey Plaza), each grappling with their own rebellious nature and desires.

The film cleverly uses its historical setting to explore themes of freedom, sexuality, and rebellion within the confines of religious life. The nuns engage in behaviors contrary to the austere life expected of them: drinking, gossiping, and romantic entanglements. Frustrations and comical misunderstandings ensue when Massetto integrates into their lives, challenging the religious rules and shaking the convent's status quo.

Main Cast and Characters

• Alison Brie as Sister Fernanda – The bold and fiery nun who often leads the trio's wild escapades.
• Dave Franco as Massetto – The young servant seeking shelter, who inadvertently becomes the object of the nuns’ affections and disrupts the convent’s routine.
• Aubrey Plaza as Sister Carla – Sarcastic and unpredictable, Carla’s character adds a layer of dark humor to the narrative.
• Kate Micucci as Sister Ginevra – The more naive and innocent of the group, yet not without her own quirks.
• John C. Reilly, Fred Armisen, and Molly Shannon also feature in supporting roles, enriching the comedic fabric of the film with their distinctive performances.

Director and Writing

Jeff Baena, known for his quirky and offbeat storytelling, directed The Little Hours, bringing the spirit of absurdist comedy to a historical setting. He co-wrote the screenplay with Alison Brie, who also stars in the film. The duo’s collaborative writing delivers a script filled with sharp wit, intentional anachronisms, and a nuanced balance between comedy and character development. The dialogue is often purposefully irreverent to contrast the film’s medieval backdrop, resulting in a fresh and unexpected cinematic experience.

Production and Style

The film is distinctive for its improvisational style. Much of the dialogue was left to the actors’ creativity, allowing organic humor and character chemistry to flourish. This approach supplemented the period setting, creating a refreshing blend of modern language and ancient surroundings. The cinematography captures the rustic beauty of Italian countryside locations, enhancing the film's eclectic atmosphere.

Reception and Impact

The Little Hours received positive reviews for its originality, bold comedic approach, and standout performances, particularly by Alison Brie, Aubrey Plaza, and Dave Franco. Critics appreciated the film's ability to tackle mature themes with quirkiness and heart, making the convent's inhabitants relatable despite their unconventional behavior. It stands out as a unique entry in the comedy genre, especially for a film that embraces such an unusual premise.

Music and Soundtrack

Unlike many Bollywood films, The Little Hours does not feature traditional song-and-dance sequences or a noticeable soundtrack carrying thematic songs. The film relies more on its script and performances to convey moods than on musical numbers. The score subtly supports the comedic and dramatic beats without drawing significant attention to itself.

Conclusion

In summary, The Little Hours is a cleverly written and well-acted comedy that offers a fresh, humorous perspective on medieval life through the lens of three rebellious nuns and a runaway servant. With vibrant performances from Alison Brie, Dave Franco, Aubrey Plaza, and others, and a screenplay that blends contemporary wit with historical absurdity, the film is an entertaining and memorable experience. Directed by Jeff Baena, this 2017 movie is a great pick for audiences looking for humor that challenges conventions while delivering heartfelt moments.

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