The film is dedicated to two living Popes, Pope Francis and Pope Benedict XVI, who voluntarily renounced the Holy See in 2013. The film carries the note “based on true events.” It is a film about recent events: the change of political power and the election of a Pope.
This is an unusual film. It has no action, no drama, no speed, no romantic turmoil. And yet it is compelling, even though it touches on the delicate themes of power and faith.
The entire plot of the film is built on brilliant dialogues between the two Popes as they talk with each other. The leading roles are played by two patriarchs of cinema, Anthony Hopkins and Jonathan Pryce. The actors play their great and wise roles with professionalism and conviction.
The film is set against beautiful landscapes and architectural landmarks: the gardens of Castel Gandolfo, the Sistine Chapel, Rome from a bird’s-eye view, the interiors of the Apostolic Palace.
It is a film about global social problems, about love for people, the weight of responsibility, simple human joys, the search for one’s true calling, the inevitability of life’s choices.
“Build bridges, not walls!” rings out as the leitmotif of the film.
Tatiana Zhiltsova