Noomi Rapace to Portray a Complex Mother Teresa in Teona Strugar Mitevska's "Mother"

Get ready for a cinematic revelation! The immensely talented Noomi Rapace, celebrated for her chameleon-like ability to embody complex characters, is set to undertake her most profound role yet: Mother Teresa. Under the visionary direction of Teona Strugar Mitevska, the upcoming feature film, simply titled "Mother," promises an unprecedented and deeply human exploration of one of the 20th century's most iconic spiritual figures.

This isn't your typical saintly biopic.

Mitevska, known for her incisive and often provocative storytelling, is determined to peel back the layers of myth and reveal the raw, vulnerable humanity of Mother Teresa. The film will delve into her "dark night of the soul," a period of profound spiritual doubt and inner struggle that has often been overlooked in traditional portrayals.

This courageous approach aims to present a Mother Teresa who grappled with faith, making her story even more relatable and powerful.

Mitevska's inspiration comes from Mother Teresa's private letters, which shockingly revealed her profound doubts about God's presence, even amidst her tireless work for the poor.

The director articulates a desire to portray "her humanity and spirituality" in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences, questioning the very nature of unwavering belief. This ambitious project seeks to understand the woman behind the legend, acknowledging her complexities and internal conflicts rather than simply eulogizing her.

Noomi Rapace herself expressed immense excitement for the role, seeing Mother Teresa not just as a saint but as a "rockstar." Her commitment to portraying the nuances of such a monumental figure, navigating both her public persona and her private torment, is a testament to the film's artistic integrity and its promise of a truly captivating performance.

Rapace's track record of fearless portrayals suggests she is perfectly poised to bring this multi-faceted character to life.

"Mother" is being brought to the screen through a robust international co-production involving Sisters and Brother Mitevski (North Macedonia), Entre Chien et Loup (Belgium), Fastnet Films (Ireland), and more, with financing from the North Macedonia Film Agency, Eurimages, and Creative Europe.

Production is slated to commence in September 2025, with principal photography planned across the evocative landscapes of Skopje, North Macedonia, the historical grandeur of Rome, and the bustling heart of Calcutta, where Mother Teresa dedicated her life.

Director Teona Strugar Mitevska has consistently garnered international acclaim for her unique cinematic voice, evident in films like "The Happiest Man in the World," which premiered at Venice, and "God Exists, Her Name Is Petrunya," a multiple award-winner from Berlin.

Her films are celebrated for their unflinching gaze at societal issues and human struggles, making her an ideal choice to helm such a sensitive yet critical project.

Meanwhile, Rapace continues to solidify her reputation as a formidable actress with a diverse range of roles. Her recent performances in films such as the Netflix thriller "Black Crab," the critically acclaimed "You Won't Be Alone," and the unsettling folk horror "Lamb" showcase her versatility and her capacity for intense, transformative acting – qualities that will undoubtedly serve her well in embodying Mother Teresa.

As "Mother" prepares to embark on its journey from script to screen, anticipation builds for a film that promises to be more than just a historical account.

It’s poised to be a profound character study, offering a rare glimpse into the spiritual battle of a woman whose unwavering commitment to service was perhaps matched only by her private wrestling with faith. This promises to be a film that challenges perceptions and sparks vital conversations.