SYNOPSIS
The Young Pope is a 2016 limited series created by Paolo Sorrentino, blending drama, satire, and surrealism to tell the story of Lenny Belardo, the first American Pope in history. Elected as Pius XIII, the young and enigmatic pontiff navigates the complexities of Vatican politics while grappling with his own faith, past traumas, and the weight of absolute power. The series explores themes of religion, identity, and leadership in a visually stunning and thought-provoking narrative.
CAST
JUDE LAW as Pope Pius XIII (Lenny Belardo)
DIANE KEATON as Sister Mary, Lenny’s mentor
SILVIO ORLANDO as Cardinal Angelo Voiello
SCOTT SHEPHERD as Cardinal Andrew Dussolier
CÉCILE DE FRANCE as Sister Sofia
JAVIER CÁMARA as Father Bernardo Gutiérrez
CREW
Director: Paolo Sorrentino
Screenwriter: Paolo Sorrentino, Stefano Bises, Tony Grisoni, Umberto Contarello Episode Release Dates: October 21 – December 2, 2016 (HBO in the U.S., Sky Atlantic in Europe)
STORY
The series begins with the unexpected election of Lenny Belardo, a 47-year-old American cardinal, as Pope Pius XIII. His youth and mysterious demeanor unsettle the Vatican’s political elite, particularly Cardinal Voiello, who had expected to control the new Pope. Lenny, however, proves to be an unconventional and ruthless leader—rejecting modernism, embracing strict traditionalism, and wielding power with calculated precision.
As Lenny asserts his authority, flashbacks reveal his troubled childhood in an orphanage and his complicated relationship with Sister Mary, who raised him. His faith is both deeply personal and deeply conflicted, leading to moments of vulnerability beneath his icy exterior. Meanwhile, Vatican intrigue, scandals, and miracles blur the line between divine intervention and human ambition.
REVIEW (600 words)
The Young Pope is a masterful blend of religious allegory, political drama, and psychological character study. Jude Law delivers a career-defining performance as Lenny Belardo, portraying the Pope with a mesmerizing mix of charisma, cruelty, and fragility. His piercing blue eyes and deliberate speech command every scene, making Pius XIII one of television’s most fascinating antiheroes.
Paolo Sorrentino’s direction is visually sumptuous, with each frame resembling a Renaissance painting. The Vatican’s opulence contrasts with the moral ambiguities of its inhabitants, creating a surreal yet grounded atmosphere. The series balances satire with deep philosophical questions—does faith require doubt? Can power corrupt even the holiest of men?
Diane Keaton shines as Sister Mary, bringing warmth and emotional depth to Lenny’s cold world. Silvio Orlando’s Cardinal Voiello is another standout, a scheming yet oddly sympathetic figure who represents the Church’s bureaucratic machinations. The supporting cast, including Javier Cámara and Cécile de France, adds layers of intrigue and humanity.
The narrative unfolds slowly, rewarding patient viewers with profound moments—Lenny’s sermons, his private struggles with God, and his manipulation of those around him. The series doesn’t shy away from controversy, depicting the Church’s scandals while also exploring genuine spirituality. The finale, ambiguous yet poetic, leaves room for interpretation, much like faith itself.
If there’s a flaw, it’s the occasional indulgence in surrealism, which may alienate some viewers. However, Sorrentino’s bold vision makes The Young Pope a unique and unforgettable experience.
CRITICAL RESPONSE
The series received widespread acclaim for its writing, cinematography, and performances. Jude Law’s portrayal was particularly praised, earning him a Golden Globe nomination. Critics lauded Sorrentino’s audacious storytelling, though some found the pacing uneven. The Young Pope was hailed as a “daring meditation on power and belief” (The Guardian) and “one of the most visually stunning shows ever made” (IndieWire).
THREE LIFE LESSONS FROM THE YOUNG POPE
1. Power Reveals True Nature – Lenny’s ascent to the papacy exposes both his brilliance and his flaws, showing how authority can amplify who we really are.
2. Faith and Doubt Are Intertwined – The series suggests that questioning one’s beliefs can be as sacred as unwavering devotion.
3. Legacy Is Shaped by Choices – Lenny’s decisions, from ruthless power plays to moments of compassion, define his impact on the Church and himself.
CONCLUSION
The Young Pope is a bold, visually arresting drama that challenges viewers with its complex characters and philosophical depth. Jude Law’s mesmerizing performance and Sorrentino’s visionary direction make it a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking storytelling.
WHERE TO STREAM
HBO Max (U.S.) Sky Atlantic (Europe)
COMMENT PROMPT
What did you think of Lenny Belardo’s leadership style? Was he a reformer or a tyrant? Share your thoughts below!