Lourdes, the world-famous pilgrimage spot, offers hope, comfort, and superficial satisfaction to throngs of believers – and they can even round out their visit with the purchase of a kitschy souvenir. Christine, who is confined to a wheelchair, is also seeking something but it’s not exactly clear just what that is. The excursion, however, does indeed bring changes into her life, and major ones at that. The serene and at the same time suspenseful movie allows room for wonder and speculation as it gently asks whether God’s mysterious ways aren’t merely an illusion. The film works both as a story of redemption and as an unbiased look at the role of faith in the lives of humans who, to a greater or lesser extent, devote themselves to their beliefs. In the search for much-needed solace, both humanity and cynicism can be found. Sylvie Testud, who won Best Actress at KVIFF 2003 (among others) for her part in Fear and Trembling, turned in a bewitching and subdued starring performance.