Synopsis
A Reno singer witnesses a mob murder and the cops stash her in a nunnery to protect her from the mob's hitmen. The mother superior does not trust her, and takes steps to limit her influence on the other nuns. Eventually the singer rescues the failing choir and begins helping with community projects, which gets her an interview on TV—and identification by the mob.
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Cast
- Whoopi GoldbergDeloris Van Cartier/Sister Mary Clarence
- Maggie SmithMother Superior
- Kathy NajimySister Mary Patrick
- Wendy MakkenaSister Mary Robert
- Mary WickesSister Mary Lazarus
- Harvey KeitelVince LaRocca
- Bill NunnLt. Eddie Souther
- Robert MirandaJoey
- Richard PortnowWilly
- Ellen Albertini DowChoir Nun
Recommendations
- 70
Variety
It’s a divine concept, and after a weak start director Emile Ardolino milks it for all the laughs it’s worth, while deriving requisite warmth from solid performances by Goldberg and Smith. - 67
Entertainment Weekly
The movie is a Disneyfied contradiction: a lapsed-Catholic comedy without a whiff of true blasphemy. Still, on its own fluffy terms, it’s pleasant nunsense. - 63
Chicago Sun-Times
The first time I saw the coming attractions trailer for Sister Act, I roared with laughter and delight. Unfortunately, it's better directed than the movie. The trailer has high energy and whammo punchlines. The movie is sort of low-key and contemplative and a little too thoughtful. - 60
Empire
Despite its hopeless predictability, this is one of those preposterous and sweet-natured family frolics that you find yourself enjoying in spite of yourself. Check your critical faculties in at the door and get stuck in. - 50
The New York Times
Sister Act was screened on Wednesday night for an audience of 300 nuns who found a lot of it funny, especially a closing gag about the Pope. Secular audiences aren't likely to be so charitable. - 50
Time Out
A bizarre mix of actors goes some way towards bolstering this flyweight caper; but the last third degenerates into farce, with nuns and thugs playing cat-and-mouse in a Reno casino. A one-note movie. - 50
TV Guide Magazine
Director Emile Ardolino largely saves the day by coaxing winning performances from an excellent cast. Goldberg's work here never loses its edge or originality, allowing her to shine opposite Smith, who is so good that she barely seems to be acting. - 50
Washington Post
Though the film has its moments and Goldberg is a riot, Sister Act is far from inspired.
