Plot Details: This opinion reveals minor details about the movie's plot.

The man who perfected Surrealism (Luis Bunuel) sleeper-holds the throat of asceticism with the 46-minute satire piece, "Simon of the Desert."

Too many people view Bunuel's satire as a stab at Christianity as a whole, when in fact, its true intent is to attack specific elements and social rules WITHIN the religion. "Simon of the Desert" is satire of the strict self-denial rules of Catholicism framed within the Biblical quote, "Blessed are those who suffer" (forgive me if it's "they" instead of "those"). However specific his target may be, there are a lot of people who get seriously offended by Bunuel's satires of religion. Take this into account while making your decision on whether or not to watch this movie and others like it.

"Simon of the Desert" is about a saintly ascetic who lives on top of a tall column next to a pheasant village. Simon has spent thirty years atop the column, kept alive by occasional lettuce and water from the local parish. Ultimately, a female Satan comes to town and plays tricks on poor Simon, attempting to get him to break his code of asceticism. So goes the basic plot...

Other characters and a few subplots withstanding, "Simon of the Desert" is REALLY about the religious and social satire within. Usually the satirical comedy comes right up and bites you on the nose making you burst into laughter, but like most Bunuel cinema, there are several levels of satire that don't hit you until you use your brain. This movie certainly isn't a complicated piece when compared to most other Bunuel films of the period, but don't think for a minute that you'll be able to absorb this one as easily as you did "Gladiator" (a big thinker there).

I will stick to my usual policy of not forcing what I think Bunuel's themes are upon my readers. The fun of Bunuel's surrealism is making your OWN inferences. The biggest Bunuel-spoiler anyone can give is when they tell you what the movie means before you see it yourself. Their own personal deductions will remain in your head and ultimately destroy your experience. I gave you the obvious "main" theme of "Simon," the rest is for you to discover.

"Simon of the Desert" is a brilliant, yet short piece by Spanish surrealist Luis Bunuel. Its relative low intensity is perfect for you if you've only seen one or two of his films. For beginners, watch "The Discreet Charm of the Bourgeoisie," then watch "Simon of the Desert." After that crash course in satirical surrealism, you'll be ready to take on the master's entire filmography with confidence that you'll pull through.

Enjoy Bunuel!

Recommended: Yes

Viewing Format: VHS
Suitability For Children: Not suitable for Children of any age