'Requiescat in pace, Papa Franciscus': Six interesting films on the Pope and the Vatican

From political thrillers to parables and documentaries, the enigmatic world of the Vatican has always been a fascination for filmmakers

With the death of the beloved Pope Francis leaving the Vatican in a papal interregnum, here are six films depicting the Pope and the enigmatic world around him:

Pope Francis: A Man of His Word (2018)

A highly minimalist offering by the director of 'Perfect Days', Wim Wenders, this documentary on Pope Francis is uncommon in its approach to making the Pope's faith and integrity accessible to the common viewer.

Conclave (2024)

This Oscar-nominated political thriller deals with faith, ambition, and the intrigue around a papal conclave. It was based on Robert Harris' 2016 novel of the same name.

Beyond the Sun (2017)

This simplistic parable on the importance of hope, faith and courage, based on stories from the Bible, is said to be the first film featuring a Pope: here, Pope Francis.

The Two Popes (2019)

A fictional film based on real-life events, this film features Sir Anthony Hopkins and Sir Jonathan Pryce delivering stellar, competitive performances as Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis, respectively.

The Pope's Exorcist (2023)

Despite suffering from narrative cliches and pacing issues, Russell Crowe still shines as Father Gabriele Amorth, who like the title suggests, becomes the Vatican's Satan-slayer.

The Godfather Part III (1990)

Despite heavy criticism for its failure to match the other two films in the renowned trilogy, the subplot of Michael's decision to buy his way to legitimacy through the Vatican Bank is quite interesting, for it was based on the real-life Church's financial scandals.