In the late 17th century, with the plague ravaging the land, young Benedetta Carlini (Virginie Efira) joins a convent in the small Italian town of Pescia, Tuscany. Seemingly capable of performing miracles and having visions of Jesus Christ from an early age, Benedetta’s impact on the community and convent is immediate and profound. But her faith – and the legitimacy of her claims – is truly questioned with the arrival of a rebellious new nun (Daphne Patakia), who tempts Benedetta like never before.

Lest you presume this to be a stuffy historical drama, Benedetta hails from director Paul Verhoeven, the man behind such controversial ‘masterpieces’ as Basic Instinct, Starship Troopers and Showgirls. So expect plenty of his trademark sex, nudity and gore as his latest film – which is probably best described as ‘nunsploitation’ – poses provocative questions about sexual freedom and faith.