With Pope Francis ’ passing comes the inevitable string of documentaries (we are in the age of “content” after all). As more look to discover the life of the late pope, here’s a list of some of the most recent, compelling (though perhaps not always accurate) films and documentaries about the pontiff and the papacy to watch.
Pope Francis: A Man of His Word
Where to stream: YouTube, Netflix, Apple TV+
What sets Pope Francis: A Man of His Word apart from the sea of pontiff-themed documentaries (and yes, there are plenty) is its intimate approach to the 266th pontiff’s journey into the Vatican. Through a series of candid interviews, Pope Francis speaks directly to the audience about his core values, global concerns, and vision for a kinder world.
The Pope: Answers
Where to stream: Disney Plus
In a complete shift from papal formality, The Pope: Answers sees Pope Francis stepping out from the shadows of tradition to have honest conversations with 10 young Spanish-speaking Gen Zers. Covering topics ranging from faithlessness, abortion, sexual abuse, Tinder, and sex, Pope Francis — or “the big boss,” as the interviewees affectionately call him — tackles some of the most pressing issues of modern life with surprising openness from the head of the Catholic Church.
Francis: The People’s Pope
Where to stream: Disney Plus
Originally produced for ABC News, the 45-minute documentary Francis: The People’s Pope has found a new streaming home on Disney Plus. The film traces the rise of Pope Francis, from his humble beginnings as a priest in Argentina to his history-making role as the first Latin American pontiff in Rome.
The Great Popes
Where to stream: Max
For papal fans wanting to examine the history of the papacy, The Great Popes offers an intimate look at the lives of John XXIII, John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis I.
The Two Popes
Where to stream: Netflix
While most moviegoers think of Conclave when the words “pope” and “movie” are put together, many forget about the 2019 comedy-drama The Two Popes. Starring Anthony Hopkins as Pope Benedict and Jonathan Pryce as the future Pope Francis, The Two Popes portrays the two historical figures as rivals-turned-friends, with Francis constantly bickering about Benedict’s conservative leanings, and Benedict in turn poking at Francis’ desire for liberal reform.
