The Two Popes & Change

The film called The Two Popes was released theatrically at the beginning of December but it's now available on Netflix. It stars Anthony Hopkins, who is good in just about anything, and Jonathan Pryce, who is also good in just about anything but lesser known. They play Pope Benedict, and his successor, the current pontiff, Francis.

It is a story about a friendship which develops out of cautious mutual respect, despite significant theological differences. The genius of the film is the focus on two human beings with a high calling who understand the role in very different ways. They do not compromise their convictions yet understand that change is necessary of an institution which is in decline. Benedict was the first pope in 700 years to resign rather than die in office, which meant that he was conservative but progressive at the same time. Francis had actually decided to resign as a cardinal and return to parish ministry but reluctantly accepted Benedict's endorsement as his successor. 

Of course much of the film is speculative, given that much of what we see is conversations to which no one would have been privy. To some degree that doesn't matter. Benedict did resign and Francis has taken an approach to the papacy which has infuriated some and given hope to many. 



Bye the bye, Anthony Hopkins as Benedict is playing the piano in the film. In an interview he mentions that he frustrated his practical Welsh father who felt that he frittered away time playing the piano as a boy, and he is self-taught. 

I would certainly encourage you to watch The Two Popes and ask some broader questions about the sometimes painful process of transition and change in our religious institutions. 

Have you seen it? Did you like it?