Watch In the Name of the Pope King
- 1977
- 1 hr 43 min
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7.5 (665)
In the Name of the Pope King is a historical drama set in 1867 in the Papal States, directed by Luigi Magni. The movie chronicles the tensions and dramas of this period in Italy's history, specifically in regards to the relationship between the Vatican and the newly formed Italian State. The main protagonist is Don Arcangeli (portrayed by Nino Manfredi), a corrupt priest who is determined to see the Pope and the Church retain their power in the face of the rising tide of Italian nationalism. He is a fascinating and complex character, who combines a passion for the Church with a deep sense of political cunning and ambition.
Despite his many flaws, Don Arcangeli is not an unsympathetic figure. He is tormented by his own conscience, and struggles to reconcile his love for the Church with the harsh realities of the world around him. His journey is both tragic and inspirational, as he fights to keep the Church relevant in a rapidly changing world.
The movie is shot in a lush and evocative style, with beautiful cinematography that captures the beauty of the Italian landscape. The period details are also superb, with costumes and settings that transport the viewer back to the 19th century.
Aside from Don Arcangeli, there are many other interesting characters in the movie, including various politicians, revolutionaries, and members of the Church hierarchy. These characters all have their own motivations and agendas, and the movie does an excellent job of weaving their stories together to create a rich and vibrant tapestry of life in Rome at this time.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the movie is the way it explores the tension between national pride and religious devotion. This tension is embodied in the character of Don Arcangeli, who is torn between his loyalty to the Church and his desire to see Italy become a unified and prosperous nation. The larger political and social context is also well-drawn, with the movie providing insights into the various forces at play in Rome during this turbulent time.
In addition to its historical and political themes, In the Name of the Pope King is also a moving and human story of redemption and sacrifice. Don Arcangeli's journey is both heartbreaking and inspiring, as he struggles to make peace with his past and embrace a more principled and selfless vision of his role in the Church.
Overall, In the Name of the Pope King is a compelling and thought-provoking movie, that succeeds in bringing to life a fascinating period of Italian history. Its excellent cast, beautiful cinematography, and complex themes make it a must-see for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of politics, religion, and culture.