The Two Popes: How Accurate Is The Netflix Movie?

Hey guys! Ever watched "The Two Popes" on Netflix and wondered just how much of it is fact and how much is fiction? It’s a brilliant film, no doubt, with stellar performances and a compelling story. But, like any historical drama, it takes liberties. Let’s dive into the real story behind the movie and find out what’s true, what’s embellished, and what’s completely made up. Grab your popcorn, and let’s get started!

The Core Relationship: Fact or Fiction?

At the heart of "The Two Popes" is the relationship between Pope Benedict XVI (played by Anthony Hopkins) and Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who would become Pope Francis (played by Jonathan Pryce). The film portrays a series of intimate, often intense, conversations between these two men as they grapple with the future of the Catholic Church. But how much of this actually happened?

The truth is, the filmmakers took some creative liberties here. While it’s confirmed that Cardinal Bergoglio did meet with Pope Benedict XVI, the extensive dialogues depicted in the movie are largely fictionalized. These conversations serve as a vehicle to explore the ideological differences and personal struggles of the two men, making for compelling cinema, but they shouldn't be taken as verbatim historical accounts. Think of it as inspired by true events rather than a strict documentary.

What is accurate is the general dynamic between the two. Benedict was indeed more conservative, rooted in tradition, while Bergoglio was known for his progressive views and concern for social justice. This contrast is a real reflection of their theological and pastoral approaches. The film captures the essence of this tension, even if the specific words and scenarios are imagined. The writers used real-world events, speeches, and writings from both figures to create dialogue that, while not directly quoted, feels authentic and true to their characters. This gives the audience a sense of their personalities and beliefs, grounding the fictionalized conversations in reality.

Furthermore, the movie accurately portrays the historical context surrounding Benedict's resignation. The Catholic Church was facing numerous crises, including scandals related to sexual abuse and financial mismanagement. Benedict's decision to step down was unprecedented in modern times and reflected a deep concern for the Church's ability to navigate these challenges. The film uses these real-world events to create a backdrop of urgency and crisis, adding weight to the conversations between the two popes and highlighting the gravity of the decisions they faced. The filmmakers also incorporated real news footage and archival material to further immerse viewers in the historical context, blurring the line between fiction and reality.

Benedict's Resignation: A Crisis of Faith or Leadership?

The film portrays Pope Benedict's decision to resign as being influenced by his growing doubts and a sense of being overwhelmed by the challenges facing the Church. Anthony Hopkins delivers a nuanced performance, showing Benedict as a man wrestling with his conscience and aware of his limitations. But how accurate is this portrayal?

Historians generally agree that Benedict's resignation was driven by a combination of factors, including his advanced age and declining health. At 85, he was the oldest pope in centuries, and he felt he no longer had the physical and mental strength to lead the Church effectively. The scandals and controversies of his papacy also took a toll, and he recognized the need for a fresh perspective. While the film delves into Benedict's potential crisis of faith, it's important to remember the practical considerations that also played a significant role. His act was seen as both humble and forward-thinking, setting a precedent for future popes who might face similar challenges.

The movie accurately depicts the unprecedented nature of Benedict's resignation. For centuries, popes had served until their death, making Benedict's decision a radical departure from tradition. The filmmakers capture the shock and uncertainty that rippled through the Vatican and the wider Catholic community. They also highlight the logistical and canonical complexities of having a pope emeritus, a situation that had no clear precedent. This added layer of complexity and intrigue to the story, raising questions about the future of the papacy and the role of tradition in a rapidly changing world. The film explores the potential tensions and challenges of having two popes living side-by-side, offering a glimpse into the inner workings of the Vatican and the delicate balance of power within the Church.

Bergoglio's Past: Truth and Controversy

One of the most compelling aspects of "The Two Popes" is its exploration of Cardinal Bergoglio's past, particularly his role during Argentina's Dirty War in the 1970s. The film doesn't shy away from the controversies surrounding his actions, depicting Bergoglio as grappling with guilt and regret over his perceived failures to protect priests and others from the military junta. But how accurate is this portrayal?

This is where the film treads on more sensitive ground. Bergoglio's actions during the Dirty War have been the subject of much debate and scrutiny. Some accuse him of collaborating with the military regime, while others defend his efforts to save lives discreetly. The film presents a nuanced view, acknowledging the criticisms while also highlighting Bergoglio's internal struggle and eventual repentance. It's a complex and controversial issue, and the film doesn't offer easy answers.

The film's portrayal of Bergoglio's past is based on historical accounts, testimonies, and journalistic investigations. The filmmakers consulted with historians and experts to ensure accuracy and fairness. While the film doesn't definitively resolve the controversies surrounding Bergoglio's actions, it provides a platform for exploring the complexities of his moral choices in a difficult and dangerous situation. It invites viewers to consider the challenges of leadership in times of political turmoil and the ethical dilemmas faced by individuals caught in the crossfire of ideological conflict. The film's willingness to confront these uncomfortable truths adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it more than just a simple biographical drama.

The Verdict: Fact vs. Fiction

So, how accurate is "The Two Popes" overall? The film gets many things right, including the historical context, the personalities of the two men, and the major challenges facing the Catholic Church. However, it's important to remember that the intimate conversations and personal revelations depicted in the movie are largely fictionalized for dramatic effect.

Think of the movie as a well-researched and thoughtfully imagined exploration of a pivotal moment in Church history. It's not a documentary, but it offers valuable insights into the lives, beliefs, and struggles of two remarkable men who shaped the modern papacy.

Ultimately, "The Two Popes" is a compelling and thought-provoking film that sparks important conversations about faith, leadership, and the future of the Catholic Church. It encourages viewers to delve deeper into the historical events and consider the complexities of the issues at stake. While it may not be entirely accurate in every detail, it captures the essence of the story and provides a valuable perspective on a fascinating chapter in religious history. So, enjoy the film for what it is: a captivating blend of fact and fiction that sheds light on the human side of the papacy.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, "The Two Popes" is a captivating blend of historical fact and creative storytelling. While the specific conversations and personal moments are largely fictionalized, the film accurately captures the essence of the relationship between Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. It provides valuable insights into their personalities, beliefs, and the challenges they faced during a pivotal moment in the history of the Catholic Church. So, next time you watch the movie, remember to appreciate it for its artistic merit and its ability to spark meaningful conversations, rather than treating it as a definitive historical account. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection and discussion about faith, leadership, and the human condition. And isn't that what great cinema is all about?