The Two Popes Review
Jonathon Pryce and Anthony Hopkins square off as two Popes who have very different ideas about how the church should progress.
This year in film has been dominated by two strong themes: powerful duos on screen and, unique and bold Netflix productions. The Two Popes is perhaps the most poignant combination of these two things and as 2019 comes to a close, it is a strong reminder that good acting and good writing will always supersede everything.
The Two Popes is about how Cardinal Bergolio, played by Jonathon Pryce, seeks permission to retire from being a cardinal from Pope Benedict, played by Anthony Hopkins. The two men have very different perspectives on how they view things and in which way the church should progress. But, as they spend more time with one another and explore their own pasts, they begin to find some common ground. In doing so, they are at the forefront of the most significant change in the Vatican’s history in the last 2,000 years.
This film is just so bloody good. At the heart of this film is two men who have contrasting worldviews. On the one hand the incumbent Pope, Benedict, is in favour of conservatism and tradition. But, the future Pope, Francis, who this film really revolves around, is more liberal minded and has gained many supporters in the years leading up to their meeting in 2012.
Each man has their own set of beliefs and is firm in their way of thinking. But, these are also given to us in the shape of acting brilliance through Jonathon Pryce and Anthony Hopkins. The former has a real shot of getting an Oscar nomination for Best Lead Actor whilst Hopkins will be yet another name on the growing shortlist of men to choose for Best Supporting Actor.
The true beauty of film is that you can feel a real sense of connection or engrossment in a subject matter you might not usually do in real life. I’m not Catholic, I’m not Christian – I’m a practicing none of your business. But, this film did such a brilliant way of conveying just how inspirational and significant a figure The Pope is for so many and how he puts forth his ideas or leads is of astronomical importance. Millions of practicing Catholics around the world and, indeed, many world leaders look to the Vatican.
But, The Pope is, after all, only human. Both of these men have their flaws and somewhat chequered pasts which this film explores. Neither is perfect and neither pretends to be. However, what I found most charming was the fact that these men are humanised in the most simplest of ways. Pope Benedict’s favourite TV show is Kommisar Rex, which follows a German Shepard police dog. Oh, and he also loves drinking Fanta with his dinner. Pope Francis, on the other hand, is a huge football fanatic and loves to tango in his spare time. The most minuscule of details help remind the audience that even The Pope has other interests and I found this both weirdly enlightening and funny.
This is a really good looking film too with some amazing cinematography. Some of the aerial shots of Rome and South America are amazing and the flashback scenes are shot in a brilliant way. The editing is slightly choppy at times. For example, there will be a scene where the two are talking whilst sitting down and then the next second they’re carrying on the exact same sentence but are now all of a sudden stood up. It doesn’t detract from the film at all, but it is noticeable. I also felt there a peaks and troughs over the course of the film too. There’s a slight dip in the second third of the film where we explore one of The Pope’s past through a flashback that I felt went on a smidge too long.
But, this film has so much for everyone to watch and enjoy. There’s some quirky humour and beautiful shots along the way, but who are we kidding? This film belongs to its two main actors and the conversations they have with each other. The two have a great dynamic and the success of this film lies on their shoulders.
This year has been a home run for Netflix. The Two Popes is yet another amazing film that they’ve put out this year. It’s certainly a Top 10 film for myself and I think many will enjoy it. I will also say it has my favourite end credits of the year as well – so make sure you watch that too!