Simon of the Desert 1965
"Sacrifice and Temptation"
Luis Buñuel's razor-sharp 1965 satire Simon of the Desert follows a devout fourth-century ascetic who perches atop a towering column, believing isolation will bring him closer to divine grace.
Director: Luis Buñuel
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Simon of the Desert (1965) about?
Simon of the Desert tells the story of a 4th-century monk who chooses to live atop a tall pillar, believing extreme asceticism will bring him closer to God. His solitude is shattered when the Devil arrives, determined to lure him back to earthly desires.
Who directed Simon of the Desert?
Simon of the Desert was directed by the legendary Luis Buñuel, whose surrealist vision reshaped cinema with films like The Exterminating Angel and Viridiana.
Who stars in Simon of the Desert?
The film stars Claudio Brook as the ascetic Simon, Silvia Pinal as the cunning Devil, and Hortensia Santoveña as a village woman who challenges his resolve.
Is Simon of the Desert (1965) worth watching?
Though unrated on IMDb, this 45-minute gem is a must-see for fans of Buñuel's surreal wit and social satire. Its blend of comedy, fantasy, and existential depth makes it a unique entry in 1960s cinema.
How long is Simon of the Desert?
Simon of the Desert runs for 45 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
Simon of the Desert (1965): Buñuel's Devilish Satire Explained — Full Movie Info
Luis Buñuel's razor-sharp 1965 satire Simon of the Desert follows a devout fourth-century ascetic who perches atop a towering column, believing isolation will bring him closer to divine grace. Yet the Devil, played with mischievous charm by Silvia Pinal, isn't about to let him escape earthly temptations so easily. Blending surreal fantasy with biting social commentary, Buñuel crafts a compact yet rich allegory about faith, sacrifice, and human frailty. The film's stark desert setting and minimalist approach amplify its unsettling humor and philosophical weight.
Claudio Brook's deadpan performance anchors this darkly comic fable, while Pinal's seductive villainy injects unexpected energy into a story rooted in medieval mysticism. With a runtime under an hour, Buñuel delivers a masterclass in concise storytelling—part religious parable, part existential farce—that lingers long after its final frame.