What it’s about
Hoping to realize a lifelong dream to transform his sprawling castle into a monastery, 82-year-old recluse Mr. Vig enlists the help of a headstrong young Russian Orthodox nun, Sister Ambrosija, to realize the complicated renovation project. Conflicts arise and tempers flare as the odd couple attempt to sort out their many differences.
Why we love it
You’d be hard pressed to find a more entertaining documentary than Grønkjær’s “Monastery,” which eavesdrops on the contentious relationship between a curmudgeonly old virgin and the slightly boorish, opinionated nun he’s inadvertently put in charge of renovating his Danish castle. At one point, Vig becomes so frustrated with Sister Ambrosija’s fussy bullheadedness and impossible repair schedule that he appeals directly to the filmmaker for assistance. Think “Extreme Makeover” with an oddball cast and a distinctly religious twist, and you’ll have some idea of what makes this so special.