God Is the Bigger Elvis (HBO)

About God Is the Bigger Elvis (HBO)

"God Is the Bigger Elvis" is a captivating HBO documentary that tells the story of Dolores Hart, an American actress who left her Hollywood career to become a Benedictine nun at the age of 24. The documentary offers a unique insight into Hart's life, detailing her transition from a successful young actress to a devoted nun. Despite her radical life change, the film continues to draw similarities between Dolores's life in Hollywood and at the Monastery – illustrating the enduring allure of devotion, whether to God or Hollywood.

Making / Production

The film, directed by Rebecca Cammisa and produced by Julie Anderson, was released in 2012. The production journey of this film was a sensitive one as it deals with intimate areas of Dolores's personal life. The filmmakers gained unprecedented access to the Monastery of Regina Laudis, where Dolores resides. The elements of Hart's life – her Hollywood career, decision to become a nun, her spiritual journey – are beautifully intertwined to produce a compelling narrative.

Actors

• Dolores Hart: Dolores is both the subject and the primary 'actor' in this documentary. She played herself and shared personal life experiences, reflections, and emotions in a truly genuine way.
• Don Robinson: He played himself as Dolores's former fiancé, his accounts providing deeper insights into her personal life.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Before becoming a nun, Dolores Hart was an established actress and was known for giving Elvis Presley his first on-screen kiss.
• God Is the Bigger Elvis was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject in 2012.
• Hart was an in-demand actress during the 50's and 60’s before leaving it all for a religious life.

Awards

'God is the Bigger Elvis' was nominated for an Oscar in the category of Best Documentary Short Subject in 2012. It was also nominated for the Emmy Award for Outstanding Arts & Culture Programming in 2013.

Quotes

• "You have to understand, I didn't leave Hollywood. Hollywood left me because I was growing up." - Dolores Hart
• "God is the bigger Elvis." - Dolores Hart explaining her decision to leave Hollywood and become a nun.

Music

The musical score was composed by James Lavino. The sublime and captivating tunes offer a perfect backdrop for the unfolding story.

Soundtracks

• "Peace of Heart" Composed by James Lavino