April 22, 2025, 10:41 a.m. ET
The Vatican — Known for its potent influence on arts and culture, the history of Catholicism intertwines deeply with the world of creativity. Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88, leaves behind a complex legacy worth exploring through various artistic lenses.
One notable artistic portrayal of the Vatican is in the 2019 film "The Two Popes," starring Anthony Hopkins as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger and Jonathan Pryce as Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio, who later became Pope Francis. The film's opening scenes set a reflective tone as cardinals gather in Rome following Pope John Paul II's demise. The solemn atmosphere is touched with humor when, in a surprising moment, a cardinal whistles “Dancing Queen,” representing Bergoglio’s approachable character juxtaposed against the weightiness of the occasion.
This unique blending of levity and serious themes captures the essence of Pope Francis' papacy, which has frequently sparked discussions about modernity, compassion, and connection within the Church. As the public reflects on his contributions and the cultural portrayals surrounding him, it remains apparent that the fusion of art and religion continues to provoke thought and foster meaningful discussions in today's society.
As we look to the future, the question remains: how will Pope Francis' legacy be interpreted through art, film, and literature in the years to come?
The Vatican — Known for its potent influence on arts and culture, the history of Catholicism intertwines deeply with the world of creativity. Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88, leaves behind a complex legacy worth exploring through various artistic lenses.
One notable artistic portrayal of the Vatican is in the 2019 film "The Two Popes," starring Anthony Hopkins as Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger and Jonathan Pryce as Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio, who later became Pope Francis. The film's opening scenes set a reflective tone as cardinals gather in Rome following Pope John Paul II's demise. The solemn atmosphere is touched with humor when, in a surprising moment, a cardinal whistles “Dancing Queen,” representing Bergoglio’s approachable character juxtaposed against the weightiness of the occasion.
This unique blending of levity and serious themes captures the essence of Pope Francis' papacy, which has frequently sparked discussions about modernity, compassion, and connection within the Church. As the public reflects on his contributions and the cultural portrayals surrounding him, it remains apparent that the fusion of art and religion continues to provoke thought and foster meaningful discussions in today's society.
As we look to the future, the question remains: how will Pope Francis' legacy be interpreted through art, film, and literature in the years to come?
