Despite my deep reservations about the scary power that religion holds over people and a severe dislike for it being used as a means to acquire wealth and control the easily influenced (a trait I see more and more of across the world); I found the Two Popes to be a fascinating and captivating watch as the story did not hide from the abuse cultivated within the Catholic Church for many years.

Jonathan Pryce puts in a masterful performance as rebellious Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio whose ideology of what religion should be used for clashes with Anthony Hopkin’s ailing and conservative Pope Benedict XVI’s.

Set across what I would term to be five main ‘acts’ the premise behind this film is simple: two powerful men, engaged in verbal and theological battle about the role of the Church in modern society.

Film making can be beautiful when simplified, much of the narrative is centred around straightforward conversation; words act as swords, one of my favourite storyline developments being how both lead characters slowly lower their guard to explore commonality, philosophy and life.

Deserving of the many awards it has won and been nominated for, if you’re looking for a fantastic weekend watch with a bottle of vino, this could be for you!

Rating: 9/10

Viewed: June 2020