Released to critical acclaim in 1928, The Passion of Joan of Arc continues to generate praise and occupies a significant place in the history of film. It is based on contemporary transcripts of the trial that resulted in Joan’s execution. The film offers insight into significant topics in the history of religion, including visionary and institutional authority, attitudes related to women and gender, and the sometimes-close relationship between saint and heretic, and it raises important questions about interpreting historical material.