I Would Be Called John: Pope John XXIII

About This Movie

I Would Be Called John: Pope John XXIII is a thoughtful character study, directed by Charles Jarrott. The film immerses you in the life of Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, who became Pope John XXIII, with Charles Durning delivering a nuanced performance that captures his warmth and humanity. The pacing is deliberate, allowing for reflection on the themes of compassion, spirituality, and leadership during a turbulent time. The atmosphere is steeped in post-war Europe, and it really nails that period feel. While there are some practical effects, like set design and costuming, that add authenticity, it's really Durning's performance that grounds the film. It’s a quieter kind of drama, but it resonates on various levels, especially for those who appreciate historical narratives.

Character-driven narrativeStrong period atmosphereDurning's performance is standout