Films about popes delve into the intricate and often compelling stories of the individuals who have ascended to the papacy, the leadership of the Catholic Church. These films can range from biographical portrayals that aim to closely follow the real-life narratives of specific popes to more fictionalized accounts that use the backdrop of the Vatican and the complex world of ecclesiastical politics for dramatic effect. Such movies often explore themes of faith, power, moral dilemmas, and the profound responsibilities of leading a global religious institution. Here is a list of notable films that have taken audiences into the lives and challenges of popes, both real and imagined:
“The Shoes of the Fisherman”, 1968
Director: Michael Anderson
This film tells the fictional story of Kiril Lakota, a Soviet prisoner released and made the Pope, who faces the challenge of averting a global crisis amidst Cold War tensions. It is a dramatic exploration of moral and political dilemmas.
Starring: Anthony Quinn, Laurence Olivier, Oskar Werner, David Janssen, Vittorio De Sica, Leo McKern, John Gielgud, Barbara Jefford, Rosemary Dexter, Frank Finlay;
Production year: 1968;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: g;
Duration: 162 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7;
More information about the film “The Shoes of the Fisherman” on the website imdb.com
“Pope Joan”, 1972
Director: Michael Anderson
Based on the legend of Pope Joan, who, according to the story, disguised herself as a man and became pope in the Middle Ages. This film explores themes of gender, power, and the lengths to which one might go to pursue their aspirations and convictions.
Starring: Liv Ullmann, Franco Nero, Maximilian Schell, Trevor Howard, Olivia de Havilland, Patrick Magee, Jeremy Kemp, Lesley-Anne Down, Natasa Nicolescu, Sharon Winter;
Production year: 1972;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 132 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,5;
More information about the film “Pope Joan” on the website imdb.com
“The Agony and the Ecstasy”, 1965
Director: Carol Reed
While not solely about the pope, this film features Rex Harrison as Pope Julius II and Charlton Heston as Michelangelo, focusing on their tumultuous relationship during the painting of the Sistine Chapel's ceiling. It presents an engaging look at an artistic and religious commission that challenges both men.
Starring: Charlton Heston, Rex Harrison, Diane Cilento, Harry Andrews, Alberto Lupo, Adolfo Celi, Venantino Venantini, John Stacy, Fausto Tozzi, Maxine Audley;
Production year: 1965;
Genre: drama, biography, history;
Age: 0+;
Duration: 138 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,1;
More information about the film “The Agony and the Ecstasy” on the website imdb.com
“Habemus Papam”, 2011
Director: Nanni Moretti
This is a comedic-drama about a newly elected Pope, portrayed by Michel Piccoli, who suffers a panic attack just as he is about to be presented to the faithful as the new pope, leading to a humorous and heartfelt examination of self-doubt and the burden of leadership.
Starring: Michel Piccoli, Jerzy Stuhr, Renato Scarpa, Franco Graziosi, Camillo Milli, Roberto Nobile, Ulrich von Dobschütz, Gianluca Gobbi, Nanni Moretti, Margherita Buy;
Production year: 2011;
Genre: drama, comedy;
Age: 16+;
Duration: 102 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,7;
More information about the film “Habemus Papam” on the website imdb.com
“The Two Popes”, 2019
Director: Fernando Meirelles
A dramatized account of the purported conversations between Pope Benedict XVI and the future Pope Francis before the former's resignation. The film delves into their differing views on the direction of the Catholic Church, their personal crises of faith, and the transition of papal power.
Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Jonathan Pryce, Juan Minujín, Luis Gnecco, Christina Banegas, María Ucedo, Renato Scarpa, Sidney Cole, Achille Brugnini, Federico Torre;
Production year: 2019;
Genre: biography, drama, history, comedy;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 125 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,6;
More information about the film “The Two Popes” on the website imdb.com
These films, through their storytelling and exploration of historical and fictional narratives, offer diverse insights into the papacy, encapsulating not only the spiritual authority it represents but also the human dimensions of its leaders.
Concluding a selection of films about popes involves recognizing the unique intersection between faith, politics, and human drama these movies navigate. Whether exploring the historical intricacies of papal reigns, the internal and external challenges faced by the leaders of the Catholic Church, or the profound philosophical and theological questions these figures grapple with, each film contributes a nuanced perspective on the pontifical office. From the lavish corridors of Vatican power to the intimate struggles of faith, these films collectively paint a multifaceted portrait of the papacy, offering viewers a deeper understanding of its complexities, contradictions, and the undeniably significant impact it has had on world history. Through their varied lenses—be they critical, reverential, or purely narrative-driven—these cinematic works contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the role of religion in society and the human qualities that define leadership at its most paradoxically divine and earthly levels.
