Films/DVD Asylum

Posted by Billy Wonka (A) on May 08, 2017 at 08:32:09

Jude Law is the youngest and first American Pope elected. During the first three episodes, I thought he was the anti-Christ. His brashness was so un-Pope like it was breath-taking of sorts. In one scene, Law was making this impassioned prayer while kneeling at his bed and waving his arms in beseechment. Then, the camera pulls back and he has a lit cigarette in one hand. There are lots of other offbeat tricks that keep you on your toes.

Paola Sorrento (The Great Beauty, best FL Film Oscar) made this a visual feast. His direction and cinematographer knocked it out of the park, again. This mini-series is tough to watch but during episode three things start to move from Papal shock and awe to more realistic subplots.

Nobody knows how Lenny got elected. James Cromwell thought he was to be the next Pope and was bitter that his protege surpassed him. Keaton played the Nun who raised him and attempts to keep him in line.

This is an intriguing story and a beauty to watch. It may not be Catholic friendly but I recommend it for its beauty and pomp.

• Papal Speech to Cardinals   (Open in New Window)