Pope Francis, the unlikely movie star: Six films show his cinematic appeal

In fictional tales and documentaries, directors approached him as a screen character who was both admired and controversial.

The film Conclave sparked reflections on Pope Francis, who recently passed away. The character of a reform-minded Mexican archbishop in the film mirrors Francis’s advocacy for marginalized groups, environmental care, and LGBTQ+ rights, which garnered both admiration and controversy during his papacy. Francis, the first Latin American pope, leaves behind a legacy of progressive teachings that challenged traditional church views.