The Two Popes Story Analysis: Plot Summary & Character Arcs
Deep dive into the narrative structure and emotional journey of The Two Popes.
Quick Plot Summary: Released in 2019, The Two Popes is a Drama, History film directed by Fernando Meirelles, written by Anthony McCarten. The narrative explores complex human emotions and relationships through detailed character development. It provides a scannable look at the movie's central conflict involving Jonathan Pryce as Jorge Bergoglio / Pope Francis.
What Is the Story of The Two Popes?
This character-driven narrative explores the internal and external conflicts that define the human experience. Frustrated with the direction of the church, Cardinal Bergoglio requests permission to retire in 2012 from Pope Benedict. Instead, facing scandal and self-doubt, the introspective Pope Benedict summons his harshest critic and future successor to Rome to reveal a secret that would shake the foundations of the Catholic Church. The screenplay takes time to develop Jonathan Pryce's journey, allowing audiences to connect emotionally with their struggles and triumphs. Each scene builds upon the last, creating a cumulative emotional impact.
How Is The Two Popes Structured?
- Opening Hook: We meet Jonathan Pryce as Jorge Bergoglio / Pope Francis in their ordinary world, establishing the emotional baseline before the inciting incident disrupts their life. Fernando Meirelles builds this foundation carefully, and across its 2h 5m runtime, the pacing proves deliberate.
- Character Arc: The protagonist, portrayed by Jonathan Pryce, undergoes a meaningful transformation, with their journey feeling earned and emotionally resonant. Supporting characters are well-developed, each serving a purpose in the narrative.
- Climax & Resolution: The emotional climax brings Jonathan Pryce's arc to its natural conclusion. Fernando Meirelles's direction delivers powerfully, providing catharsis while staying true to the story's core themes.
What Are the Themes of The Two Popes?
The film delves into universal human experiences including love, loss, identity, and belonging. It holds up a mirror to society, asking difficult questions about morality, choice, and consequence.
What Works and What Doesn't in The Two Popes?
✅ Strengths
- Exceptional storytelling that balances entertainment with substance
- Strong performances, especially from Jonathan Pryce, that bring depth to the characters
- Technical excellence in cinematography, editing, and sound design
⚠️ Weaknesses
- Minor pacing issues that do not significantly detract from the experience
- A few underdeveloped subplots