Director and cowriter Nanni Moretti presents us with a “what if” meditation on the passing of the papal torch. Following the death of the old Pope, the new elect (played with timid sincerity by Michel Piccoli) finds himself emotionally unable to face the responsibility of his new station. The film raises some interesting questions about the pressures of faith and the shaky border between religious and secular life. The ensemble cast is impressive. Unfortunately, the sluggish camera spends much of its time brooding over the new Pope. We are left feeling sympathetic to his trials and a bit bored by their length. (2012) — John Rubio
This movie is not currently in theaters.