The Two Popes

— This is an unexpectedly thoughtful film, although I’m not sure how an individual viewer’s Catholic bias might affect their take on the story. For me, it’s an interesting look inside a corner of the Vatican, as well as the differing theological core the two men—Popes Benedict XVI and Francis—have. A clever script and outstanding acting hold center stage, and without them we wouldn’t get a picture of the seemingly unlikely growth of their relationship, their passion and concern for their flock, or their own personal fallibility. It’s certainly fictionalized, but it’s hard to know how close it comes to the flavor of their actual relationship. The scholarly sparring between conservative and liberal is engaging and, as they begin to understand each other, their opposing views give way to common ground. It’s an excellent film and, if I had to fault it in any way, I’d say the subtitles, when Italian or Latin is spoken, are sometimes difficult to read and probably very difficult if viewing on a personal device. [Netflix streaming.]

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[2019. 125 min. Directed by Fernando Meirelles. Starring Jonathan Pryce and Anthony Hopkins.]
https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-two-popes-movie-review-2019