‘Pope Francis – A Man of His Word’ Review

“No one can serve two masters. We either serve God or serve money,” says Pope Francis into the camera as part of the new documentary about the Pontiff, his teachings, and his views on life in Pope Francis: A Man of His Word.

German Filmmaker Wim Wenders (Buena Vista Social Club, The Salt of the Earth) teams up with the Vatican and His Holiness to make a film that does not tell the Pope’s life story but rather brings the audience in close to the man to hear his ideas and thoughts on a variety of different topics. The documentary crew traveled with the Pope across the world to cover his spiritual speeches and capture how his presence affects thousands of Catholics around the globe who’ve had the privilege of seeing him and hearing his words in person.

One of the film’s most moving and powerful scenes shows the Pope washing and then kissing the feet of prisoners he meets in Philadelphia. The film captures how Pope Francis humbles himself by this act and shows the power of kindness and tenderness to those who have sinned and lost their way in life.

The ambitious documentary also includes an interview with the Pope in which he’s questioned about his views on subjects such as faith, global warming and recycling, homosexuality, the power and struggles of family life, and a person’s purpose in the world. The questions are treated fairly and the Pope gives insightful answers.

Pope Francis: A Man of His Word is an inspiring, touching, and engrossing film. The documentary provides a behind-the-scenes look at the Pope, allowing him to explain his views on important, relevant issues, and shows off his sense of humor as well. Pope Francis: A Man of His Word is an informative look at a man who, when he became Pope, modeled himself after his namesake St. Francis and is truly working to make a difference in this world.

GRADE: B

MPAA Rating: PG for thematic material including images of suffering

Running Time: 96 minutes

Release Date: May 18, 2018 (Limited)