What Is Novitiate About?
The premise of Novitiate in 289 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.
In the quiet hills of 1950s Tennessee, a young girl from a modest, restless household is offered a chance to leave the turbulence of home life behind through a scholarship to a Catholic girls’ school. The promise of education and a structured world of ritual beckons her, and the convent that looms behind the school’s stone walls becomes both sanctuary and crucible. The atmosphere is steeped in the austere rhythms of mid‑century Catholicism, where incense‑laden chapels and disciplined daily routines contrast sharply with the freedom of the surrounding countryside.
The story follows Cathleen, whose yearning for belonging and spiritual certainty drives her toward a life of devotion. As she moves from student to postulant, she encounters the formidable Reverend Mother Marie Saint‑Clair, whose iron‑clad adherence to tradition shapes the convent’s harsh discipline, and the compassionate Sister Mary Grace, whose softer approach hints at a possible evolution within the order. Their differing philosophies create a subtle tension that colors every interaction, suggesting an institution on the cusp of change.
Set against the backdrop of the sweeping reforms of Vatican II, the convent becomes a microcosm of a Church wrestling with modernity. Voices whisper of new liturgies, language, and an emerging openness, while long‑standing hierarchies resist. The mood oscillates between reverent solemnity and the quiet, almost invisible stirrings of personal doubt, hinting at the inner conflicts that will test each sister’s resolve.
Through richly rendered images of candlelit aisles, echoing chants, and the lingering scent of incense, the film invites viewers to contemplate the delicate balance between faith and self, tradition and transformation, all seen through the eyes of a young woman poised on the threshold of a life she believes will answer the deepest questions she has yet to ask.
What Happens in Novitiate?
The complete story of Novitiate, from the first scene to the last, in 792 words (about 3 minutes). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 6 cast member pages.
Spoilers ahead
This compelling drama unfolds during the transformative period of Vatican II (1962-65) within a Catholic convent, as experienced through the lenses of various characters including the stern, traditional Mother Superior and the more compassionate, modern nuns, along with the Postulants and Novices—especially focusing on Sister Cathleen.
In 1954, young Cathleen Harris (originally played by Eliza Manson) resides in rural Tennessee alongside her mother, Nora (a factory worker disinterested in religion), who wishes to expose her daughter to church and allow her to make her own choices. Cathleen’s father, Chuck (portrayed by Chris Zylka), returns home inebriated one night, which leads to a heated argument with Nora, resulting in his departure. Left to fend for herself, Nora cycles through a string of fleeting relationships.
At the age of 12, Cathleen (played by Sasha Mason) longs for affection and finds solace in Catholicism after two nuns visit her family and propose she enroll in a Catholic girls’ school, offering her a scholarship contingent on her stellar academic performance. During her time at school, a young nun becomes a friend to Cathleen, conveying her own unique relationship with Christ. Fast forward to 1964, after encountering yet another transient partner of her mother, Cathleen (now Margaret Qualley) decides to depart her troubled home environment and dedicate her life to God.
She becomes a postulant among twenty other girls at the Sisters of the Beloved Rose. The path ahead is filled with challenges and discipline under the watch of Reverend Mother Marie Saint-Clair (played by Melissa Leo), a tough and unyielding figure who imposes strict training measures and harsh penalties during the weekly “chapter of faults” sessions. During these sessions, the postulants confess their wrongdoings and often endure humiliating penances like “The Discipline,” a knotted whip used for self-flagellation.
Contrasting the Reverend Mother, Sister Mary Grace (played by Dianna Agron) is a kind-hearted and open-minded nun that seeks to ease the burdens of the postulants. Though life in the convent is predominantly regimented, fleeting moments of camaraderie and laughter emerge among the sisters. However, Cathleen often shies away from her peers, preferring solitary moments immersed in scripture.
Amidst this structured environment, the Reverend Mother ignores letters from Archbishop McCarthy regarding Vatican II. When Sister Mary Grace advocates for the necessity of change, she is sharply rebuffed by the Mother Superior, who insists, > “The Church is perfect exactly the way it is.” Their disagreement stirs tension, culminating in Sister Mary Grace’s decision to leave the convent.
After completing her postulancy, Cathleen takes her Simple Vows and becomes a novice. As the Reverend Mother’s demeanor turns increasingly austere, Cathleen begins to grapple with an awakening of her own sexuality. One night, after awakening from a confusing dream, she withdraws further into herself, plagued by feelings of guilt and shame which impact her physical well-being. During a visit from her mother, Cathleen appears frail and malnourished, prompting Nora to confront Reverend Mother about her daughter’s suffering. The Reverend Mother dismisses the concern, remorselessly stating that Cathleen is now entirely devoted to the Church.
Cathleen ultimately faints during dinner due to starvation and is confined to the infirmary, where she confides her struggles to Sister Emanuel (Rebecca Dayan). In a moment of vulnerability, Cathleen and Sister Emanuel share an intimate encounter, which leads Cathleen to find a sense of peace. Following this episode, Cathleen starts to show signs of recovery, but the two women never revisit their passionate moment.
As the narrative progresses, Archbishop McCarthy visits the convent, informing the Reverend Mother that the order must transform in order to survive the reforms initiated by Vatican II. He warns her that failure to adapt might result in her replacement. The news sends the Reverend Mother into despair, fearing her connection with God has been severed.
In a subsequent chapter meeting, a novice shares her doubts about God’s existence, prompting an unusually lenient response from the Reverend Mother. When Cathleen confesses her need for emotional comfort and her past with Sister Emanuel, she is forced to humiliate herself before her peers as a form of penance—this ultimately leads to her emotional breakdown. Afterward, Sister Emanuel slips away from the convent without bidding farewell to Cathleen.
Eventually, in a dramatic congregation meeting, the Reverend Mother unveils the Archbishop’s directives surrounding Vatican II changes including the use of English during Mass and encouraging religious tolerance. This marks a shift in the status of nuns, as they are no longer mandated to wear traditional habits.
Among the original twenty postulants, merely five remain to take their final vows, with Cathleen among them. During the solemn mass for their Profession, when asked what she seeks, one novice answers that she wishes to marry Jesus Christ. When it’s Cathleen’s turn, she decisively asserts, > “I seek something more.”
Novitiate Timeline: Every Key Event in Order
14 key events in the order they happen, from “Cathleen's Childhood” to “Final Vows Ceremony”. 7 events name a place, across 5 locations.
- 1
Cathleen's Childhood
In 1954, young Cathleen Harris lives in rural Tennessee with her disinterested mother Nora and drunk father Chuck. After a heated argument, Chuck leaves, leaving Nora to navigate a series of fleeting relationships while trying to support her daughter.
When:1954 Where:Tennessee
- 2
Turning to Faith
At the age of 12, Cathleen finds herself longing for affection and discovers solace in Catholicism. Two nuns visit her family, offering her a scholarship to a Catholic girls' school contingent on her academic performance, which sparks her interest in religion.
- 3
School and Friendship
During her time in the convent school, Cathleen develops a friendship with a young nun who helps her understand her unique relationship with Christ. This bond deepens her commitment to her faith as she embraces her new life.
Where:Catholic girls' school
- 4
Leaving Home
In 1964, after facing instability from her mother's transient partners, Cathleen decides to leave her troubled home. She chooses to dedicate her life to God by becoming a postulant at the Sisters of the Beloved Rose.
When:1964
- 5
Life as a Postulant
Cathleen joins twenty other girls at the convent, where she must navigate strict discipline under the Reverend Mother Marie Saint-Clair. The training is challenging, with weekly 'chapter of faults' sessions that expose the postulants to harsh penalties for their mistakes.
Where:Sisters of the Beloved Rose
- 6
Sister Mary Grace's Kindness
In contrast to the Reverend Mother, Sister Mary Grace provides compassion and support to the postulants. She encourages camaraderie among the sisters, offering moments of relief in an otherwise austere environment.
- 7
Vatican II Ignored
The Reverend Mother dismisses correspondence from Archbishop McCarthy regarding the changes mandated by Vatican II. The tension between the progressive ideas of Sister Mary Grace and the traditional stances of the Reverend Mother becomes increasingly evident.
- 8
Cathleen's Awakening
After taking her Simple Vows and becoming a novice, Cathleen experiences an awakening regarding her own sexuality. Struggling with guilt and shame, she finds herself increasingly isolated, reflecting on her internal conflicts.
- 9
Nora's Concern
During a visit from her mother, Cathleen appears frail and malnourished, raising alarms for Nora. Confronting the Reverend Mother, Nora expresses her concerns for her daughter's well-being, but is met with indifference.
Where:Convent
- 10
Intimate Encounter
Cathleen ultimately faints during dinner due to starvation and is confined to the infirmary. In a vulnerable moment, she shares her struggles with Sister Emanuel, leading to an intimate encounter but also a deepening emotional conflict.
Where:Infirmary
Show the other 4 events of Novitiate Hide the last 4 events
- 11
Archbishop's Visit
Archbishop McCarthy visits the convent to deliver the news that reforms must take place for the order to survive. This information causes significant distress for the Reverend Mother as she realizes her authority is under threat.
Where:Convent
- 12
Confessions and Breakdown
In a chapter meeting, a novice expresses doubts about God, leading to an unusually empathetic response from the Reverend Mother. However, Cathleen's confession about her past with Sister Emanuel leads to her public humiliation, pushing her towards a breakdown.
- 13
Vatican II Changes Announced
A pivotal meeting occurs where the Reverend Mother announces the changing directives from the Archbishop concerning Vatican II, including changes in Mass practice and attire for nuns. This moment signifies a major shift in the convent's dynamics.
- 14
Final Vows Ceremony
In a solemn mass, only five of the original postulants remain to take their final vows. Cathleen's response to the question of what she seeks signifies her quest for greater fulfillment beyond the traditional roles imposed upon her.
Where:Convent
Who Are the Main Characters in Novitiate?
5 characters, among them Sister Cathleen, Nora Harris and Reverend Mother Marie Saint-Clair: who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.
-
Sister Cathleen
Played by Margaret Qualley
Sister Cathleen is a complex character who transitions from a troubled home life to a life of religious devotion. Despite her serious commitment to her faith, she struggles with personal conflicts related to love and identity, showcasing her vulnerability as she navigates expectations and desires.
- 🌹 Novice
- 🙏 Devoted
-
Nora Harris
Played by Julianne Nicholson
Nora Harris, as Cathleen's mother, embodies a more secular perspective as she grapples with her daughter's religious choices. Her tumultuous relationships and attempts to provide a sense of normalcy reflect the challenges faced by women in a changing societal landscape.
- 👩👧 Mother
- 💔 Struggles
-
Reverend Mother Marie Saint-Clair
Played by Melissa Leo
The stern and traditional Reverend Mother embodies the rigidity of convent life, enforcing discipline and traditional values. Her strict nature presents a significant challenge for the postulants, particularly for Cathleen, as they seek to reconcile their faith with personal growth.
- ❗ Authority
- ⚖️ Tradition
-
Sister Mary Grace
Played by Dianna Agron
Sister Mary Grace serves as a compassionate figure, contrasting the Reverend Mother with her kindness and understanding. Her advocacy for change reflects a more modern approach to faith, ultimately influencing Sister Cathleen's journey.
- 💖 Compassionate
- ✨ Advocate
-
Archbishop McCarthy
Played by Denis O'Hare
Archbishop McCarthy represents the institutional Church's voice during a time of reform, providing a perspective on the necessary changes dictated by Vatican II. His interactions with the convent highlight the tension between tradition and the need for adaptation.
- 👔 Authority
- ⚖️ Change
Where and When Is Novitiate Set?
Novitiate is set in Sisters of the Beloved Rose and rural Tennessee (1962-1965). Here is why the time and place matter to the story.
When
1962-1965
The movie unfolds during the transformative period of Vatican II, which brought significant changes to the Catholic Church, emphasizing reform and modernization. This era was marked by a shift towards greater religious tolerance and the reconsideration of traditional practices within the Church.
Where
Sisters of the Beloved Rose, rural Tennessee
The Sisters of the Beloved Rose is a Catholic convent that serves as the primary setting for the film, characterized by its strict discipline and traditional practices. Situated in a rural area of Tennessee, it becomes a space of both spiritual aspiration and emotional turmoil for the characters as they navigate their faith and identities.
- ⛪ Convent
- 🌳 Rural Area
What Are the Themes of Novitiate?
3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Faith and Doubt, Tradition vs Modernity and Self-Discovery.
-
01
Faith and Doubt
The theme of faith versus doubt is central to the characters' journeys, particularly for Sister Cathleen as she grapples with her devotion to God while confronting her burgeoning sexuality and the harsh realities of convent life. Her struggle signifies a broader conflict experienced by many in the Church during a time of change and re-evaluation.
-
02
Tradition vs Modernity
The clash between traditional values and modern interpretations of faith is vividly portrayed through the contrasting approaches of the Reverend Mother and Sister Mary Grace. This theme highlights the challenges of adapting to new ideologies while remaining rooted in established beliefs, particularly during the shifts initiated by Vatican II.
-
03
Self-Discovery
Sister Cathleen's journey of self-discovery is a poignant aspect of the narrative, as she seeks to understand her identity beyond the confines of the convent and her religious upbringing. Her experiences prompt reflections on love, sexuality, and the quest for personal fulfillment in the midst of spiritual dedication.
What Kind of Film Is Novitiate?
Dark in tone, with slow pacing and a moderate story, going by the plot summary.
- Tone
- Dark
- Pacing
- Slow
- Story
- Moderate
- Intensity
- Medium
- Ending
- Ambiguous
A slow-burning, intensely somber drama set within the rigid confines of a convent, exploring the internal struggle between faith, personal identity, and awakening desire amid an atmosphere of oppressive discipline.
- austere
- claustrophobic
- introspective
- oppressive
- melancholic
- conflicting
- spiritual crisis
- religious devotion
- sexual repression
- institutional change
Content notes: self-flagellation, sexual repression, emotional abuse, starvation.
Quiz
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Where to Watch Novitiate
Rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.
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