The Young Pope

Wow, don't think i ever been that impressed by the first two episodes of a TV series. The story line doesn't sound that innovative: young, unknown American cardinal becomes pope surprisingly but instead of being a puppet for the powerful cardinals in the background, he is trying to take the vatican over completely. Now this could be just another vatican drama or another over the top comedy about the church...but its something very different. Jude Laws portrayal of the young pope is certainly one of the better acting performances I've seen in a while. he is cold, stoic but also full of rage and passionate about his convictions and most important: you cant figure him out. one minute you think he is a complete jerk or insane, next you believe that he is a saint. the cinematography and music is excellent. some of the mass scenes could have been shot better but thats nit picking.

This my first review only because I read two bad reviews and feel it may not have given it real justice. They say it is predictable, uninspiring, trying to be something original. That being said it is probably true to a degree but you have to keep watching. At first all these things are presented too show the facade of what we already know - the scandals - but it fades and introduces new questions. For someone who bores at the fact of church going this was rather intriguing. Jude Law is great as the young American pope. I feel he plays with the subtle conflicts so well; vanity, power, pious yet struggles, scathing but is a visionary.

It does offer itself in the end a nice change to what is already out there. Refreshing that is isn't another zombie, crime, legal, quirky comedy or supernatural or super powers, or medieval bloody TV series.

There is nothing else like this.

Pro-Catholicism? Anti? None of the above.

This is beyond Catholicism. Beyond religion.

It asks all the questions and gives no simple answers, or obvious answers, or predictable answers, or even unchanging answers.

Or, in some instances, answers at all.

Is it about faith? Absolutely. But without any requirement or persuasion.

And the human condition.

About love. Acceptance. Justice.

Is it, really, even about the Pope?

Exquisitely shot in stunning surround. Did it put even one foot wrong? I would say yes. Keaton. But I still give it a ten.

Without spoilers The series starts rough. Very aggressive and mean. Machiavellian even. But when it hits this those last three episodes.....

I've never in my 40 years seen media that moved me. Moved me to tears. To goodness. This series is so intelligent and the set up is so good that I really feel bad for anyone who doesn't make it to the end. From the story to the music to the end. Amazing.

It really makes me sad how this series won't have the attention it deserves. Most people won't be able to get past the ridge moral and political views. The shocking graphic scenes and the first 7 episodes will deter even more. But this series is one I will keep and re-watch many times. Something I do with no other TV show or movie or play.

I am utterly in love with this series. From the gorgeous soundtrack, to the depth and humour of the dialogues, the sharp exposure of human nature and the intricacies of belief and devotion, this series in an absolute joy. This comment is from someone whose last favorite series was BBC's Merlin. I rarely watch TV and follow series; it really has to be something special to grab my attention and keep it for a long time. This is truly special. I am devouring it, fully embodying the sinner in me. I confess to the deadly sins of gluttony - because I am never satisfied and I always want more of it - and lust, because Jude Law is oh my God so sexy and hot, in body, mind, and soul, and a brilliant, brilliant actor; I was happy to know he also produces it. And why not sloth too, since I don't mind spending several hours in a row watching it and I don't feel a slight bit of guilt because of it. Oops, here goes for pride. I am totally free of greed though, for I wish everyone watch this and drink of this divine juice. Amazing, and I hope there will be no more seasons, otherwise it will lose its substance and depth. Good things come in small packets. Thank you for this gem and congratulations for the genius collaboration behind it.