Father's Faith Shaken by Confession.

In Absolution, Father Goddard is the headmaster of a Catholic boys' school known for his strict disciplinary methods. He is a deeply devout and rigid individual who believes in instilling discipline and order in his students' lives. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when one of his teenage students, Benjamin, confesses to committing murder.

Father Goddard is shaken by the revelation and finds his faith and sense of authority challenged. He struggles to understand how a seemingly normal young boy under his guidance could commit such a heinous act. As he investigates Benjamin's confession, Goddard becomes increasingly obsessed with the idea of sin, punishment, and redemption.

Meanwhile, a fellow teacher named Blakey suspects that Goddard may have a darker past of his own. As the exploration of guilt and secrets intensifies, Goddard's repressed desires and pent-up frustrations begin to surface.

Absolution delves into the psychological turmoil experienced by Goddard as he battles with his faith, authority, and personal demons. His obsession with the idea of control and punishment becomes increasingly evident as he descends into a spiral of paranoia and self-doubt. With the help of the enigmatic housekeeper Miss Gargoyl, Goddard embarks on a journey of self-discovery that will ultimately determine his fate.

The film features a strong ensemble cast, including Billy Connolly in his first feature-film role as Benjamin, Dominic Guard as Goddard, Dai Bradley (known for his role in Kes), and Brian Glover. Written by Anthony Shaffer, the movie is praised for its chilling atmosphere, psychological depth, and Richard Burton's towering performance as Father Goddard.