Nov. 27, 2019|USA|125 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Comedy;Drama;History
Description: In April 2005, Jorge Mario Cardinal Bergoglio, the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, is called to the Vatican following the death of Pope John Paul II to participate in the election of a new pope. Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, a prominent German prelate, is elected as Pope Benedict XVI, while Cardinal Bergoglio secures the second-highest number of votes. Seven years later, the Catholic Church faces the Vatican leaks scandal, and Benedict’s leadership is marred by accusations of involvement in the coverup.
Cardinal Bergoglio has submitted his resignation as archbishop, but the Vatican has not acted on it. As he prepares to personally deliver his resignation in Rome, he is summoned to the Vatican. Bergoglio and Benedict meet at the Palace of Castel Gandolfo, the Pope’s summer residence. The two engage in debates about the roles of God and the Church. Benedict shares his journey into the priesthood and his personal interests. They watch Benedict’s favorite TV show, Kommissar Rex, which delays their discussion about Bergoglio’s resignation.
Bergoglio recounts his early life and his decision to join the Jesuits, ending his marital engagement. He reflects on his spiritual friendships with Father Franz Jalics and Father Orlando Yorio. Benedict refuses Bergoglio’s resignation, fearing it would be seen as a lack of confidence in his leadership and weaken the Church. Over time, the two set aside their differences, warming to each other through informal conversations.
The next day, they travel to the Vatican by helicopter. Benedict continues to avoid discussing the resignation but later confides in Bergoglio within the Sistine Chapel’s Room of Tears, revealing his own intention to step down as pope.
Cast director: Fernando Meirelles
Cast actor: Jonathan Pryce, Anthony Hopkins, Juan Minujín, Luis Gnecco, Cristina Banegas, María Ucedo, Renato Scarpa, Sidney Cole, Achille Brugnini, Federico Torre
Original name: The Two Popes