Amid renewed interest in Vatican-inspired productions following the release of Conclave, a film that was once acclaimed has made a strong comeback in Netflix’s catalog and is once again among the most-watched. It’s The Two Popes, a work that, through an intimate and human approach, portrays one of the most unique and decisive moments in the recent history of the Catholic Church.
The Two Popes is based on true events and focuses on a historic turning point: the unprecedented resignation of Pope Benedict XVI and the unexpected ascension of Argentine Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio to the papacy. This situation gave rise to an unprecedented image: two popes coexisting in the same time and space, with radically different approaches to the direction the Church should take.
The production, directed by Fernando Meirelles, recognized for his work on City of God, was released in 2019 as part of the Netflix original catalog. Since then, it has been considered one of the best dramatizations of religious themes in modern cinema, both for its technical level and the emotional depth with which it addresses its characters. The script, written by Anthony McCarten, was also one of the most praised aspects, earning it an Academy Award nomination.
What truly elevates this film to another level are the performances of Anthony Hopkins, in the role of Benedict XVI, and Jonathan Pryce, as Francis. Both actors received Academy Award nominations for their roles, thanks to the sensitivity with which they portray the doubts, tensions, and convictions of their respective characters. The film does not seek to sensationalize drama, but rather to present a sincere and profound dialogue between two men with enormous responsibilities and contrasting worldviews.
The story is set in a moment of institutional crisis within the Vatican, where the contrasts between a more traditional stance, embodied by Benedict, and a reformist outlook, represented by Bergoglio, are explored. In this context, the film manages to convey humanity and closeness, showing that even the most powerful figures face internal conflicts, fears, and the need for reconciliation.
Beyond theological differences, what The Two Popes highlights is the possibility of dialogue and understanding amidst divergence, something that resonates especially in times of global polarization. In a setting as secretive as the Vatican, the film manages to open a window into the personal dimension of those who lead one of the most influential institutions in the world.
As the public regains interest in the inner workings of the Catholic Church and its leadership, this production becomes a key element in understanding how a change of Pope can influence not only the religious structure, but also society and global politics. Francis’s arrival at the Vatican represented a shift toward a Church closer to the faithful, more open to dialogue, and more committed to the social issues of the present.
The Two Popes is not only quality cinema, but also a cinematic testimony to an unprecedented moment. Whether you’re watching it for the first time or looking to relive it, this film, available on Netflix, remains a must-see for those seeking a better understanding of the challenges and transformations within the Vatican in the 21st century.
