Movies Showcasing the "Pope of the People"

The World Bids Farewell to Pope Francis: A Digital Era's Divine Leader

The world's heart aches as we bid adieu to the Supreme Pontiff who embodied the essence of love, respect, and empathy. Known as the "Pope of the Digital Age," Pope Francis shimmered a beacon of hope across the globe. As we delve into his health crises, final days, and eventual demise, the globe collectively grieves and witnesses a renewed fascination with the Vatican's core and the profound impact of his governance.

Following his passing, interest skyrocketed in films and documentaries symbolizing the Church's rituals and the essence of Francis' papacy. According to a 2025 CNN report, the political thriller "Conclave," released in 2024, garnered a dizzying 283 percent spike in viewership due to the anticipation surrounding the impending papal succession. Yet beyond the electrifying suspense of choosing a new pope, many seek out works that illuminate Francis' humility and legacy as the "People's Pope."

Here are five essential films that revisit his life and legacy:

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"Pope Francis: A Man Unveiled" (2018)

Crafted meticulously by award-winning filmmaker Wim Wenders, this documentary offers a tantalizing glance into Pope Francis' soul as he voyages the world, delivering messages of mercy, justice, and unity. Woven with his poignant reflections, the movie addresses pressing global issues with Francis' stirring words, "With so much to do, we must act together."

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"Confessions of a Saint (Bergoglio)" (2015)

Written and directed by Beda Docampo Feijóo, this Argentine biopic narrates the early life of Jorge Mario Bergoglio before his ascent to the papacy. Told through the eyes of a Spanish journalist, the film traces his spiritual journey, unveiling the man destined to become one of the most cherished figures in the contemporary Catholic Church.

"Call Me Francis" (2015)

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This riveting four-part Italian miniseries recounts Pope Francis' genesis story—from his early beginnings as a young Jesuit priest in Buenos Aires during the 1960s to his moral leadership during Argentina's "Dirty War" era. Co-created by Daniele Luchetti and Martin Salinas, and produced by Pietro Valsecchi, Call Me Francis vividly captures the roots of his compassion and valor, culminating in his historic election as the first Latin American Pope in 2013.

"The Better Shepherds" (2019)

Inspired by actual events, "The Better Shepherds" stars Jonathan Pryce as Cardinal Bergoglio and Anthony Hopkins as Pope Benedict XVI. Sculpted by Fernando Meirelles, the film delves into the ideological rifts and unexpected camaraderie between two men of faith, tackling the future of the Church. Although fictionalized, the film presents a striking contemplation on transition and reform.

"A Saint in the Modern Age (Francesco)" (2020)

Guided by Evgeny Afineevsky, "A Saint in the Modern Age" is an intensely human vignette of Pope Francis as a moral leader addressing today's most compelling global challenges, including refugee crises, LGBTQ+ rights, and interfaith harmony. The documentary combines rare archival footage, personal interviews, tweets, and audio recordings to showcase his views, offering a touching tribute to a pope who saw the world through the lens of unity, rather than division.

In 2025, it was revealed that the political thriller "Conclave," released in 2024, saw a significant increase in viewership, with a spike of 283 percent, owing to the anticipation surrounding the impending papal succession.
The documentary "Pope Francis: A Man Unveiled" (2018), created by award-winning filmmaker Wim Wenders, showcases Pope Francis on his global journeys, conveying messages of mercy, justice, and unity through his poignant reflections and insights on pressing global issues.
"Confessions of a Saint (Bergoglio)" (2015), an Argentine biopic written and directed by Beda Docampo Feijóo, narrates the spiritual journey of Jorge Mario Bergoglio before his ascent to the papacy, offering a glimpse into the life of the man who would later become one of the most cherished figures in the contemporary Catholic Church.
The documentary "A Saint in the Modern Age (Francesco)" (2020), guided by Evgeny Afineevsky, combines rare archival footage, personal interviews, tweets, and audio recordings to present a moving tribute to Pope Francis, showcasing his views as a moral leader addressing contemporary global challenges such as refugee crises, LGBTQ+ rights, and interfaith harmony.