Lorica

A priest exposes her mentor’s abuse in her own way…

Watch the Film:

Lorica (starring Jess Paul) is a riveting short drama by filmmaker Benjamin Carlucci about cross-denominational clergy abuse.

Director Carlucci explains, “[W]e who call the church our home must ask: how are we to respond? Ruth's line in Lorica, "God doesn't want you to confront this in anger," is an all too common sentiment. In one sense, there is wisdom here, especially in a "judge not lest ye be judged" mindset… But more often (or at least too often), such inclinations are weaponized to pacify those calling for justice.” Read Benn’s full essay on the film here.

Lorica has been honored with the following awards & selections:

★ Best Short Film @ Youngstown FF
★ Best Short Narrative @ Red Rose FF
★ Audience Choice, 3rd Place in Show @ The 15 Minute FF
★ Programmer’s Prize: Exceptional Filmmaking @ FI:LA
★ Best Short Film, Best Director, Best of Fest - Northeast Pennsylvania Film Festival 2025
★ Best Drama, Best Actress (Director’s Choice), BestDrama Featurette - Austin Revolution Film Festival 2025
Official Nominee: Best Drama - Couch Film Festival 2024
Official Nominee: Best Cast (short) altff Summer 2024
Official Selection: Sleeping Own Film Festival 2024
Official Selection: East Lansing Film Festival 2024
Official Selection: Black Bear Film Festival 2024
Official Selection: Film Invasion Los Angeles 2025
Official Selection: Monadnock International FF 2024
Official Selection: Phoenixville Film Festival 2024
Official Selection: Centre Film Festival 2024
Festival Finalist: Burabay International Short Film Festival 2024

Official Trailer