Of Gods and Men is last year’s Grand Prix winner at Cannes. Loosely based on true events during armed conflict between the government and Islamic extremists in the 1990s, it centers around eight Trappist monks and their relationship to the village that grew around the monastery over a few decades.

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The Islamic peoples of the village love the monks. Their relationship and peaceful co-existence is built on respect for each other’s faith. The monks sell honey to the locals to sustain their existence and provide free medical care.

An invasion of the monastery by extremists changes everything. While it ends well, the invasion begins an intense debate by the monks on whether to stay or not. The monks know the rebels will be back and next time it could mean death.

Their dilemma is spiritual as well as moral. Jesus Christ — their Savior — did not run. Healing the sick and loving and caring for all was his mission. He is their example. The people of the village count on the monks and need the medical care and other services. Fear, some of the monks reason, should not enter into their mission.

At the same time, practical matters are part of the debate. Why stay and die?

Writer/director Xavier Beauvois’ adaption of Etienne Comar’s original script is powerful, intense and thought provoking. He wraps the story in traditional chants and bible readings. They — along with sparse but intense dialogue — reflect the feelings of the monks.

Beavois is a patient storyteller. The chants are lengthy and beautiful.

He also examines what we think we know about Islam and the religious conflict of the fundamentalists. Of Gods and Men say they are far, far apart. Left alone most of the Islamic and Christian faiths will peacefully co-exist with each other. Scenes of the cooperation between the peoples of different faiths are wonderful.

Of Gods and Men also features a fabulous cast of French actors that most of you do not know and have never seen. This is one of the rare films that the words “must see” truly fit.

Mr. Movie rating:5 stars

Rated R for mature themes and some violence. It opens Friday, May 20 at the Carmike 12.

5 stars to 4 1/2 stars: Must see on the big screen
4 stars to 3 1/2 stars: Good film, see it if it's your type of movie.
3 stars to 2 1/2 stars: Wait until it comes out on video.
2 stars to 1 star: Don't bother.
0 stars: Speaks for itself.