Can a fictional meeting between two popes reveal the truth about their complex relationship?

Entertainment · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: The Two Popes imagines a private dialogue between Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio before the historic 2013 papal transition. While the film earned acclaim for its performances, it blends historical fact with creative speculation, sparking debate over how accurately it portrays the tensions within the Vatican.

Directed by Fernando Meirelles and written by Anthony McCarten, the 2019 biographical drama explores the ideological divide between the conservative Benedict and the reform-minded Bergoglio. The narrative centers on a series of imagined conversations at Castel Gandolfo, where the two leaders debate church tradition, the role of the papacy, and their personal histories. While the film draws on real events and published philosophical debates, McCarten acknowledges that much of the interaction is speculative, intended to capture the spirit of their relationship rather than a literal transcript.

Critics and religious commentators have pointed out several departures from reality. For instance, the film suggests Benedict was responsible for the misconduct of Father Marcial Maciel, whereas historical records indicate Benedict actually removed Maciel from his position. Additionally, the film depicts the two men bonding over television, despite Pope Francis having stated he had not watched TV since the 1990s. Some observers, including Bishop Robert Barron, have criticized the film's characterization of Benedict, arguing it simplifies his views to heighten the dramatic contrast with his successor.

The film's reception has been marked by both artistic praise and scrutiny regarding its portrayal of internal church politics. Media outlets like The New York Times and The Guardian have noted that the real-life relationship between the two men was often more strained than the film suggests, citing letters from Benedict that appeared to challenge the direction of Francis's papacy. Despite these historical tensions, the film remains a significant cultural touchstone, experiencing a notable surge in viewership following the passing of Pope Francis in the spring of 2025.

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