Must-Watch Movies That Bring St. Francis Xavier’s Life to the Screen

As the historic Exposition of the Relics of St. Francis Xavier takes center stage in Goa, devotees and curious visitors alike will have a unique opportunity to honor the legacy of one of Christianity’s most revered saints. To deepen your connection with his extraordinary life and missionary journey, we've curated a list of top films that bring to life the remarkable story of St. Francis Xavier. Whether you're a long-time admirer of his work or just beginning to learn about this influential figure, these films offer compelling portrayals of his spiritual mission and the enduring impact he left on the world.

1) Xavier: Missionary and Saint

“Xavier: Missionary and Saint” (2006), directed by Jeremy Zipple, is a compelling documentary that chronicles the life and legacy of St. Francis Xavier. Narrated by Liam Neeson, this PBS-style film brings Xavier’s story to life through a mix of dramatizations, interviews, location shots, artworks, maps, and his surviving letters. The film features insights from prominent scholars such as Ingrid Rowland (Notre Dame University), Andrew Ross (University of Edinburgh), Lourdes del Costa (University of Goa), Anthony Ucerler, SJ (Jesuit Historical Institute), Gauvin Bailey (Clark University), and John O'Malley, SJ (Weston Jesuit School of Theology), enriching viewers’ understanding of Xavier’s impact on Renaissance and Jesuit history.

Watch the movie on YouTube:

Xavier: Missionary and Saint (2006) | Narrated by Liam Neeson

2) Francis Xavier and the Samurai's Lost Treasure

“Francis Xavier and the Samurai's Lost Treasure” is an animated film that brings to life the extraordinary journey of St. Francis Xavier. From his early days at the University of Paris, where he formed a lifelong friendship with St. Ignatius of Loyola, to his daring missionary adventures across India, Southeast Asia, and Japan, the film highlights the bold and adventurous spirit of Xavier.

Notably, the film explores Xavier's mission to Japan, where he encountered samurai culture. His efforts in spreading Christianity to the Japanese people are contrasted with the cultural and political challenges of the time. The "Samurai's Lost Treasure" symbolizes both the tangible and spiritual treasures Xavier sought to share, including the message of faith, hope, and redemption.

Watch the movie on Formed at:

Francis Xavier and the Samurai's Lost Treasure - Episodes - FORMED

3) Saint Francis Xavier - To the Ends of the Earth

Saint Francis Xavier - To the Ends of the Earth is a captivating documentary by EWTN that brings to life the remarkable journey of Saint Francis Xavier. A brilliant educator and philosopher, Francis Xavier gave up everything to follow Christ and dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel to remote and unexplored regions. This inspiring docudrama takes viewers through his transformative journey, from his formative years at the University of Sorbonne to his final days as a missionary in East Asia. Filled with dramatizations of significant moments from his life, the production offers a rich and insightful look into the legacy of a saint who profoundly impacted the lives of countless individuals. 

Watch the movie:

SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER - TO THE ENDS OF THE EARTH

4) Saint Francis Xavier and the Church in Japan

"Saint Francis Xavier and the Church in Japan" is an EWTN original documentary that provides a profound insight into the history of Catholicism in Japan and the pivotal role of Saint Francis Xavier in its early introduction to the country. The film traces the journey of Saint Francis Xavier, who arrived in Japan in 1549, and his efforts to evangelize the Japanese people. 

In addition to this, the documentary highlights the contributions of other Jesuit missionaries and Catholic figures who continued to spread the faith in Japan despite immense challenges. It also touches on the revival of the Church in Japan in the modern era, exploring how the faith has grown and adapted in contemporary Japanese society.

Through interviews with historians, theologians, and religious scholars, Saint Francis Xavier and the Church in Japan paints a rich portrait of the missionary efforts, cultural exchanges, and the complex relationship between Christianity and Japanese culture. The documentary is a valuable resource for those interested in the history of Christianity in Asia, the life and legacy of Saint Francis Xavier, and the fascinating story of the Catholic Church’s journey in Japan.

Watch the movie here:

SAINT FRANCIS XAVIER AND THE CHURCH IN JAPAN

By Steve Antao