10 Captivating Movies About the Vatican and the Papacy

Hello, fellow book and movie enthusiasts! Welcome back to Bookimov: Books & Movies, where we explore fascinating stories across literature and cinema. Today, we’re diving into the mysterious and sacred world of the Vatican and the papacy through film. From political thrillers to spiritual epics, these movies offer a glimpse into the power, intrigue, and faith that define the Catholic Church’s most iconic institution.

Whether you're fascinated by historical scandals, conclave conspiracies, or the personal struggles of popes, this list has something for you. Let’s explore 10 must-watch films about the Vatican and its leaders!

1. Conclave (2024) – A High-Stakes Thriller

Director: Edward Berger | Starring: Ralph Fiennes

This gripping political thriller follows Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) as he oversees the election of a new pope after the previous one’s death. The film meticulously captures the Vatican’s ancient rituals—like the sealing of the papal apartments and the burning of ballots—while unraveling a web of corruption, bribery, and even a terrorist attack in Rome. With a 92% on Rotten Tomatoes, Conclave delivers edge-of-your-seat suspense, making it a must-watch for fans of Vatican intrigue.

2. The Two Popes (2019) – A Heartfelt Dialogue on Faith

Director: Fernando Meirelles | Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Jonathan Pryce

This touching drama imagines the private conversations between Pope Benedict XVI (Anthony Hopkins) and Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio (Jonathan Pryce, in an Oscar-nominated role) before Benedict’s historic resignation. Set against the Vatican’s grandeur, the film blends humor and deep theological debates, humanizing two very different leaders. It’s a beautiful exploration of faith, change, and the Church’s future.

3. The Shoes of the Fisherman (1968) – A Cold War-Era Papal Drama

Director: Michael Anderson | Starring: Anthony Quinn

Anthony Quinn delivers a powerful performance as Kiril Lakota, a Ukrainian priest who survives a Siberian labor camp only to be elected pope during the Cold War. The film explores his struggle to address global crises—famine, nuclear threats, and Vatican politics—while staying true to his faith. A thought-provoking look at how a pope’s moral leadership can shape the world.

4. The Agony and the Ecstasy (1965) – Michelangelo vs. the Pope

Director: Carol Reed | Starring: Charlton Heston, Rex Harrison

While not strictly about the papacy, this epic historical drama depicts the tumultuous relationship between Pope Julius II (Rex Harrison) and Michelangelo (Charlton Heston) as the artist paints the Sistine Chapel. The clash between creative genius and papal authority makes for a riveting story, showcasing the Vatican’s role as both patron and obstacle to art.

5. The Borgias (2011-2013) – Scandal and Corruption in the Renaissance

Creator: Neil Jordan | Starring: Jeremy Irons

Though a TV series, The Borgias earns its spot for its cinematic grandeur. Jeremy Irons mesmerizes as Pope Alexander VI, the infamous Renaissance pope who ruled through bribery, nepotism, and murder. Filmed in lavish Hungarian studios, this drama dives deep into the dark side of papal history, where power and faith collide in shocking ways.

6. Angels & Demons (2009) – A Vatican Conspiracy Thriller

Director: Ron Howard | Starring: Tom Hanks

Based on Dan Brown’s novel, this action-packed thriller follows symbologist Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) as he races to stop the Illuminati from destroying the Vatican during a papal conclave. Packed with historical secrets, hidden codes, and breathtaking Roman locations, it’s a pulse-pounding adventure that blends fact and fiction.

7. The Young Pope (2016) – A Bold, Surreal Take on the Papacy

Creator: Paolo Sorrentino | Starring: Jude Law

Jude Law stars as Lenny Belardo, the first American pope (Pius XIII), whose radical and controversial leadership shocks the Vatican. With dreamlike visuals and sharp commentary on faith and modernity, The Young Pope is a daring exploration of what happens when an outsider takes the throne of St. Peter.

8. Habemus Papam (2011) – A Papal Crisis with Humor

Director: Nanni Moretti | Starring: Michel Piccoli

This Italian comedy-drama follows a newly elected pope (Michel Piccoli) who suffers a panic attack and refuses to appear before the crowds. A psychiatrist is secretly brought in to help, leading to a touching and humorous examination of doubt, faith, and the weight of spiritual leadership.

9. The Flowers of St. Francis (1950) – A Spiritual Masterpiece

Director: Roberto Rossellini

Included in the Vatican’s official list of great films, this Italian neorealist classic portrays the life of St. Francis of Assisi and his followers with simplicity and grace. Unlike the political dramas, this film offers a meditative look at humility, joy, and the essence of Christian faith.

10. Pope Joan (2009) – The Legend of a Female Pope

Director: Sönke Wortmann | Starring: Johanna Wokalek

Based on the medieval legend, this historical drama tells the story of Joan, a woman who disguises herself as a man and rises through the Church’s ranks, eventually becoming pope. Though controversial, the film raises fascinating questions about power, gender, and the secrets hidden in Vatican history.

Final Thoughts

From the sacred to the scandalous, these films offer a rich tapestry of stories about the Vatican and the papacy. Whether you prefer historical epics, political thrillers, or spiritual reflections, there’s something here for every cinephile.

Which of these films is your favorite? Have we missed any great Vatican movies? Let us know in the comments! And if you enjoyed this list, don’t forget to subscribe for more deep dives into books and movies. Happy watching! 🎬📖