Watch The Young Pope

In the world of politics and religion, no position is as powerful as being the Pope. And for the Vatican, it's time for a new leader to take the helm. This is where "The Young Pope" comes in, a TV series that first aired on Sky Atlantic in 2016, directed by Paolo Sorrentino, and starring the talented Jude Law as Lenny Belardo, the newly elected Pope Pius XIII.

Lenny is an unconventional Pope, as he is the first American and youngest-ever elected to the papacy. He is also known for his controversial and extreme views, which make him a divisive figure not only among his followers but also within the Vatican. Diane Keaton plays Sister Mary, Lenny's mentor and confidante, who has known him since he was a young orphan boy, and Javier Camara plays Cardinal Gutierrez, one of Lenny's closest advisers.

The show is set in the Vatican City, and viewers get to glimpse a world that is usually shrouded in secrecy. We see the inner workings of the church, the political maneuverings, power struggles, and the day-to-day lives of the clergy. It's a world of high stakes and high drama, where every decision and every action has far-reaching consequences.

The show draws a stark contrast between the new Pope and his predecessors, who were more moderate in their views and approach. Lenny, on the other hand, is dogmatic and unyielding, with his extreme conservatism causing rifts and divisions among the clergy. The show explores the consequences of such a unique appointment and questions the extent to which the church is willing to accept change.

One of the most striking elements of the show is its visual style. The cinematography is stunning, with beautifully crafted shots that evoke a sense of grandeur and awe. The show makes excellent use of light and shadow, creating a sense of mystery and intrigue. The score is equally impressive, with a haunting soundtrack that further adds to the show's atmospherics.

Despite its heavy subject matter, "The Young Pope" also manages to inject humor into the mix. Lenny's irreverent attitude and his willingness to bend the rules to suit his own ends often result in some hilarious scenes. The show is not without its dark humor, with some of the characters' actions bordering on the absurd.

The characters themselves are another strong aspect of the show. Jude Law delivers a powerful performance as Lenny, portraying the character's vulnerability, arrogance, and dogmatism in equal measure. Diane Keaton plays Sister Mary with great warmth and depth, giving the character a sense of humanity that contrasts well with the more austere members of the clergy.

Silvio Orlando, who plays Cardinal Voiello, the Secretary of State, is another standout character. He is a pragmatist who is often at odds with Lenny but understands the need for compromise in order to keep the church functioning. His character is emblematic of the tensions that exist within the church, with some members looking to preserve its traditions, while others seek to build a more progressive future.

"The Young Pope" is not without its flaws. Its pacing can be slow at times, and some of the subplots feel underdeveloped. However, these are minor quibbles in what is otherwise an excellent show. It's a thought-provoking exploration of power, politics, and religion, and one that will leave viewers pondering long after the final credits have rolled.

In conclusion, "The Young Pope" is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of politics and religion. It's a bold and powerful drama that tackles complex themes with great finesse. The show's stunning visuals, intricate plotting, and memorable characters make it an unforgettable viewing experience. Whether you're a fan of the genre or not, this is a show that demands your attention.

The Young Pope is a series that ran for 1 seasons (10 episodes) between January 15, 2017 and on Sky AtlanticHBOCanal+