Is Defender of the Faith Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Defender of the Faith is likely a skip if you enjoy Documentary movies.
It features a runtime of 92 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Defender of the Faith Review
Last updated: January 10, 2026
The Premise
Released in 2019, Defender of the Faith enters the Documentary genre with a narrative focused on As Pope Benedict XVI, Joseph Ratzinger wanted to lead the Church back to its former strength, but instead he plunged it into a deep crisis. Under the direction of Christoph Röhl, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Ulrich Tukur, Benedict XVI, Georg Gänswein. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Defender of the Faith offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Defender of the Faith resonates with current cultural themes in the Documentary space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, Defender of the Faith is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Defender of the Faith centers on a unique premise within the Documentary landscape. As Pope Benedict XVI, Joseph Ratzinger wanted to lead the Church back to its former strength, but instead he plunged it into a deep crisis. He reacted largely inactive to the revelations of multiple cases of abuse by clergy. In order to understand the thinking of this unconditional hardliner, documentary filmmaker Christoph Röhl delves deep into Ratzinger's past - but what really leaves us speechless are the testimonies of how the church, on a large and small scale, dealt with the crimes of its priests. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 2019 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Defender of the Faith has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Defender of the Faith sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Defender of the Faith (2019): with an audience rating of 5.5/10, the reception has been divisive. It is a recommended for fans of Documentary cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Defender of the Faith has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 5.5/10, and global collection metrics, Defender of the Faith stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2019 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Defender of the Faith movie hit or flop?
Defender of the Faith has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Defender of the Faith worth watching?
Defender of the Faith is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Defender of the Faith?
Defender of the Faith is a Documentary movie that As Pope Benedict XVI, Joseph Ratzinger wanted to lead the Church back to its former strength, but instead he plunged it into a deep crisis. He reacted...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Defender of the Faith movie hit or flop?
Defender of the Faith has received mixed reviews with a 5.5/10 rating, making it a moderate success with the audience.
Is Defender of the Faith worth watching?
Defender of the Faith is a mixed bag. It might be worth watching if you're a fan of Documentary movies, but read reviews first.
What genre is Defender of the Faith?
Defender of the Faith is a Documentary movie that As Pope Benedict XVI, Joseph Ratzinger wanted to lead the Church back to its former strength, but instead he plunged it into a deep crisis. He reacted...
Is Defender of the Faith family friendly?
Defender of the Faith is a Documentary movie. Please check the content rating before watching with family.
Where can I watch Defender of the Faith?
You can find streaming options and availability for Defender of the Faith on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of Defender of the Faith?
Defender of the Faith features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie Defender of the Faith?
The runtime and duration of Defender of the Faith are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
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