Is Xavier Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2006)

📖 The Core Premise

Xavier returns to the screen in 2006, bringing a fresh narrative to the Documentary, History, TV Movie genre. At its heart, the film explores complex themes wrapped in a compelling storyline. As the plot unfolds, we see characters navigating a world where stakes are high. "Fourth Week Films and the New Orleans Jesuit Province present Xavier, a new PBS-style documentary film on the life of the famed 16th-century Jesuit missionary Francis Xavier. Narrated by Liam Neeson, Xavier tells the missionary's compelling story through dramatizations, interviews, contemporary location shots, paintings and engravings, maps, and most importantly, the extant letters of Xavier. The film features interviews with distinguished scholars of Jesuit and Renaissance history including Ingrid Rowland (Notre Dame University), Andrew Ross (University of Edinburgh), Lourdes del Costa (University of Goa, India), Anthony Ucerler, SJ (Jesuit Historical Institute in Rome), Gauvin Bailey (Clark University) and John O'Malley, SJ, (Weston Jesuit School of Theology)."

🎬 Performance & Direction

A movie's success often hinges on its execution. Liam Neeson shines in a role that demands both nuance and gravitas, elevating the material significantly. The direction aims to balance pacing with character development, a hallmark of good Documentary. The cinematography and score further amplify the experience, creating a truly immersive atmosphere.

🤔 Why You Should Watch (or Skip)

Is Xavier worth your time? If you appreciate Documentary, History, TV Movie films that take risks, this is likely a must-watch. It stands out as one of the stronger entries of 2006, offering enough depth to satisfy critical viewers while remaining accessible to casual audiences.

🏆 Final Verdict

Ultimately, Xavier is a solid addition to the genre. With a runtime of 56 minutes, it asks for a significant time investment, but for the right audience, it pays off.

Our recommendation: Definitely Watch.