Augustine: Son of Her Tears is a beautifully made film that creates an intelligent and interesting juxtaposition of time. The film takes us on a dual journey; weaving Hedi’s life as a documentary filmmaker researching this mysterious philosopher alongside a dramatic re-telling of the life of young Augustine. As Hedi studies St. Augustine’s progression to a dramatic conversion, he finds himself experiencing new convictions in his own relationships.
Augustine’s mother is his solid rock, not because she forces religion on him, but because he sees her dedication and her unwavering love for him. She intercedes for him throughout his life and she is tortured by his lifestyle and his choices. As an intellectual he continues to pursue the truth and test the teachings of his time. He must first be convinced through his mind, but as with all of us, he must experience the pursuit of God’s Holy Spirit in his heart — that is what changes his life. He is moved to study God’s word and he is overwhelmed by the truth of Jesus Christ.
The movie is originally filmed in an Arabic language and is over-dubbed in English, which sometimes makes for an odd connection between voice and actor. But that oddity melts away as we become involved with the strong storylines. The filmmaker also had a passion for elevating the truth that Augustine was of North African (Berber) origin. H. J. Aoun was troubled by the fact that Augustine’s fame did not reach to his heritage, and wanted to tell the story from the true cultural beginnings.
Augustine: Son of Her Tears is a wonderful introduction to understand the interesting story behind this famous father of our faith. We highly recommend this film for families of all ages and we encourage the discussion of how such a brilliant man rebelled and investigated the deepest truths and found none other than Jesus to be absolute truth.
Augustine: Son of Her Tears is awarded the Dove Approved All Ages seal.
Augustine: Son of Her Tears cleverly conveys the important story of this rebellious and brilliant intellectual, who would become one of the most influential fathers of our faith.