The Two Popes (2019) Movie Review: A Thought-Provoking Dialogue Between Faith and Leadership
The Two Popes (2019), directed by Fernando Meirelles, is a compelling historical drama that delves into the complex relationship between two prominent figures in the Catholic Church: Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. Based on real events and written by Anthony McCarten, the film offers a nuanced portrayal of the personal and ideological differences between these two leaders and their impact on the future of the Church.
Plot Overview
The film is set against the backdrop of the 2013 papal conclave, which follows the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI (played by Anthony Hopkins). As the Church faces a period of crisis and uncertainty, Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio (played by Jonathan Pryce), who would later become Pope Francis, seeks permission to retire. Instead, he is summoned to a private meeting with Pope Benedict at the papal summer residence.
The narrative unfolds through a series of conversations between the two men, revealing their differing visions for the Catholic Church and their personal struggles. The film explores themes of faith, reform, and the challenges of leadership as Pope Benedict and Cardinal Bergoglio engage in a series of thought-provoking and often humorous dialogues.
The story also delves into Bergoglio’s past and his journey towards becoming Pope Francis, including his experiences in Argentina and his views on the future of the Church. The film portrays the emotional and intellectual conflict between the two men as they discuss their differing perspectives on the role of the Church in a changing world.
Performances and Characters
Anthony Hopkins delivers a masterful performance as Pope Benedict XVI, capturing the character’s intellectual rigor, personal doubts, and complex nature. Hopkins portrays Benedict with depth and subtlety, reflecting the weight of his resignation and the internal conflict he faces.
Jonathan Pryce’s portrayal of Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio is equally compelling, bringing warmth, humor, and a sense of moral clarity to the character. Pryce’s performance highlights Bergoglio’s humility, empathy, and his vision for reform within the Church.
The chemistry between Hopkins and Pryce is a highlight of the film, with their interactions providing a dynamic and engaging exploration of their characters’ differing views and personalities.
Direction and Cinematography
Fernando Meirelles’ direction in The Two Popes is characterized by its thoughtful and intimate approach. Meirelles effectively captures the personal and political dimensions of the story, using the dialogue between the two characters to explore larger themes related to faith and leadership.
The cinematography by César Charlone complements the film’s narrative, using visual techniques to enhance the emotional and intellectual depth of the story. The film’s use of light and color, along with its focus on close-ups and intimate settings, creates a sense of intimacy and reflection.
Themes of Faith, Reform, and Leadership
The Two Popes explores several key themes, including faith, reform, and leadership. The film delves into the personal and ideological differences between Pope Benedict and Cardinal Bergoglio, highlighting their distinct approaches to addressing the challenges facing the Catholic Church.
Faith is a central theme, with the film examining the role of personal belief and conviction in shaping the direction of the Church. The film portrays the characters’ struggles with their own faith and their vision for the future of the Church.
Reform is another significant theme, with Cardinal Bergoglio’s desire for change and renewal contrasting with Pope Benedict’s more traditional approach. The film explores the complexities of implementing reform within a deeply rooted institution and the challenges of balancing tradition with progress.
Leadership is also a key theme, with the film examining the responsibilities and moral dilemmas faced by the leaders of the Church. The dialogues between the two men provide insight into their leadership styles and their views on the role of the Church in the modern world.
Impact and Reception
The Two Popes received widespread acclaim for its engaging storytelling, strong performances, and thoughtful exploration of its themes. The film was praised for its ability to present complex and nuanced portrayals of its characters and its exploration of the personal and institutional challenges facing the Catholic Church.
On IMDb, the film holds a high rating, reflecting its positive reception among viewers and critics. The film’s impact is evident in its successful portrayal of a significant period in the history of the Catholic Church and its contribution to discussions about faith and leadership.
The film also garnered several award nominations, including Academy Award nominations for Best Actor (Anthony Hopkins) and Best Supporting Actor (Jonathan Pryce), highlighting its critical success.
Streaming and Availability
For viewers interested in watching The Two Popes, the film is available for streaming on Netflix and can be rented or purchased on digital platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies. Its thought-provoking narrative and powerful performances make it a valuable watch for those interested in historical dramas and explorations of faith and leadership.
Conclusion
The Two Popes (2019) is a thought-provoking and engaging film that offers a nuanced exploration of faith, reform, and leadership within the Catholic Church. With its compelling performances, intimate direction, and exploration of complex themes, the film stands out as a significant contribution to historical drama. Whether you’re interested in the inner workings of the Church or simply enjoy character-driven storytelling, The Two Popes is a film that provides both depth and entertainment.
