The Good Pope Ending Explained: What Happened and Why?
Complete breakdown of the climax, final twists, and spoilers for The Good Pope.
The Good Pope Ending Explained: Angelo Roncalli, born in Sotto Il Monte in 1881, is known for his profound spirituality as well as his extraordinary goodness from the young years of his life. Directed by Ricky Tognazzi, this 2003 drama film stars Bob Hoskins (Angelo Roncalli / Pope John XXIII), alongside Carlo Cecchi as Cardinal Mattia Carcano, Roberto Citran as Monsignor Loris Capovilla, Fabrizio Vidale as Angelo Roncalli (young). With a 6.3/10 rating, the ending has divided audiences.
What Happens at the End of The Good Pope?
Angelo Roncalli, born in Sotto Il Monte in 1881, is known for his profound spirituality as well as his extraordinary goodness from the young years of his life. When he feels a need to serve God, Angelo goes to study theology in Bergamo, and in Apollinare School (Rome) and becomes a priest. During his studies, he gets to know his two dearest friends, Mattia and Nicola. Very soon, most people see marvelous talents in him, including his wide knowledge and a constant readiness for sacrifice. The Holy See makes him go further to bishop and cardinal, and the Holy Father sends him to various places as a representative of the Church. When Pius XII dies on October, the 9th, 1958, 77 year-old Angelo goes to Rome, to conclave to choose a new pope. However, this time, it is him who hears gentle words of Jesus "Tu es Petrus!" ("You are Peter!") and from October, the 28th leads the church as pope John XXIII
Ricky Tognazzi's narrative builds toward a resolution centered on Bob Hoskins (Angelo Roncalli / Pope John XXIII)'s journey. When he feels a need to serve God, Angelo goes to study theology in Bergamo, and in Apollinare School (Rome) and becomes a priest.
How Does Bob Hoskins (Angelo Roncalli / Pope John XXIII)'s Story End?
- Bob Hoskins: Bob Hoskins's storyline wraps up in the final act, though some viewers have found the resolution more ambiguous than expected.
- Carlo Cecchi (Cardinal Mattia Carcano): Carlo Cecchi's role in the climax proves pivotal to how the central conflict resolves.
- Roberto Citran (Monsignor Loris Capovilla): Roberto Citran's character undergoes a significant shift in the final act.
Is The Good Pope Based on a True Story?
Yes — The Good Pope draws from real events. The ending reflects documented outcomes, though Ricky Tognazzi has taken creative liberties in dramatizing specific scenes for cinematic impact.
What Does the Ending of The Good Pope Mean?
The Good Pope's ending attempts to resolve the major plot threads, though some narrative elements involving Bob Hoskins may feel rushed. Ricky Tognazzi's final act has been both praised for its ambition and criticized for its execution.