Here is a biographical film: it traces the life of François de Sales, who lived in the 17th century. However, it is not merely a reflection of the past; it offers markers that express values, spirituality, and perhaps even biases born of the present time!

The embodiment of François de Sales is portrayed by a character wearing broad garments and a black hat, navigating through symbolic landmarks that also include archival images: statues and paintings.

The film incorporates a few sound and written quotes from the author, the accumulation of archival images, and wide shots of the region where François de Sales lived. It features two voice-overs, one of a narrator and the other delivering the words of François de Sales, responding and dialoguing with sequences of documentary interviews.

This medium-length film (52 minutes) is decidedly geared towards pedagogy rather than spectacle, although its aesthetics exude a polished finish.

Of course, in this film, we get a reflection of what François de Sales saw and felt. The contemplation of nature, the patient and non-violent struggle to find a harmonious life, is peaceful despite the upheavals of every moment!

We are invited to transition from 1622, the year of François de Sales’ death, to the present day. To move from François de Sales to Saint François de Sales, and to the relevance of his thought today.