What is it that motivates someone to join a group of actors performing the life of Jesus, when the mere mention of the Catholic Church these days is enough to raise most eyebrows ?
Catherine Hébert looks for an answer to that question, spending a year inside the theatre group Agapaix, from rehearsals to closing night. Founded 30 years ago by an unusual priest, the company of “amateurs of professional quality” always presents the same play, Voici l’Homme (Behold the Man). But does what began as a contemporary alternative to the 1970s rehash of Christian liturgy fulfill the same needs today? Agapaix (Agape) appeals to fragile people looking for spirituality or a family, as well as to aspiring actors. And then there is François, the skeptic who disturbs this beautiful communion of souls and who, in a nice irony, is cast as the Doubting Thomas.
The rich array of characters and motivations leads to some weird and wonderful moments ; at the same time, the film presents the kind of solidarity most people rarely experience.