(Hart took her final vows in 1970 she became the monastery's abbess in 2001.) It highlighted her work with Presley - with whom she shared a famous on-screen kiss - and other co-stars such as Montgomery Clift, Anthony Quinn, George Hamilton and Robert Wagner.īut the 37-minute film focused more on Hart's life at the Abbey of Regina Laudis monastery in Connecticut, where she has spent 53 years, and examined the lives of Hart and her fellow Benedictine sisters. 'God is the Bigger Elvis' proved to be an excellent stage-setter for Hart's appearance. In others words, to be an actress and a woman religious requires deep authenticity in the moment.

'Yes,' Hart said, noting that an actress is not merely playing a role. 'Are you still an actress?' film historian Foster Hirsch asked Hart at her appearance. Both the film, directed by Rebecca Cammisa and shown prior to Hart's appearance, and Hart's own remarks made clear that her 'two lives' actually have links and connections. Hart proved to be a trouper in every sense. The subject of a 2011 Oscar-nominated documentary ('God is the Bigger Elvis') and now author of a memoir, Ear of the Heart: An Actress' Journey From Hollywood to Holy Vows, Hart was invited by the theater for an evening of reminiscing and reflection. A long line spilled out April 25 on the sidewalk in front of New York City's Film Forum repertory movie house to hear and see the legendary Hart.Ī one-time leading lady who co-starred with Elvis Presley in two films - 'King Creole' and 'Loving You' - Hart, 77, startled Hollywood five decades ago when she abandoned her burgeoning acting career and took vows as a Benedictine sister. Need proof? Hart can still attract a sold-out crowd. Mother Prioress Dolores Hart is still a star.

The Ear of the Heart by Dolores Hart