Staff Reports
Fox Nation’s docudrama series, Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints, has returned with new episodes just in time for the Easter season, and the spotlight is on one of Christianity’s most beloved figures: St. Francis of Assisi. Known for his humility, love for nature, and devotion to God, St. Francis’s life is brought to the screen with a fresh perspective that highlights both his humanity and his divine calling. Actor Andrea Arcangeli, who portrays the saint, delivers a performance shaped by deep personal reflection and an immersive preparation process that included living among Franciscan friars in Assisi.
The episode delves into St. Francis’s remarkable transformation from a privileged young man to a devout servant of Christ. Born into wealth, Francis initially pursued worldly pleasures and dreams of chivalry but was profoundly changed after enduring the horrors of war and captivity. A vision from Christ calling him to “rebuild my church” became the turning point in his life. From that moment, Francis embraced a life of poverty and humility, founding the Franciscan Order and dedicating himself to serving the poor and spreading the Gospel. His story is not just one of faith but also courage, as he even confronted Sultan Al-Kamil during the Fifth Crusade to promote peace.
Arcangeli’s portrayal emphasizes St. Francis’s struggles with doubt and his search for purpose—qualities that make him deeply relatable to modern audiences. To prepare for the role, Arcangeli spent time living with Franciscan friars, adopting their disciplined lifestyle of prayer, simplicity, and reflection. This experience allowed him to better understand Francis’s spiritual journey and his profound connection to God through nature. The actor described this preparation as transformative, helping him capture not only the saint’s holiness but also his very human vulnerabilities.
St. Francis’s legacy as a lover of creation is also explored in the series. His reverence for nature and all living beings is beautifully depicted through stories like his preaching to birds and taming a ferocious wolf in Gubbio. These accounts are more than charming legends; they reflect Francis’s belief in the interconnectedness of all creation under God’s care. In today’s world, where materialism often overshadows spiritual values, his message of simplicity and harmony with nature feels especially poignant.
As The Saints continues to inspire viewers with stories of faith and resilience, this episode on St. Francis serves as a reminder of the power of humility and service in transforming lives. At a time when many seek meaning amid chaos, Francis’s example offers hope that peace can be found through devotion to God and love for others. With Martin Scorsese at the helm as executive producer, this series not only honors these historical figures but also challenges audiences to reflect on their spiritual journeys.
