Saving Grace

Please keep in mind that I am a movie watcher, I don't care much for "the deeper meaning" behind it. I work hard, life is tough, I see all the pain and suffering in the day to day grind. I watch movies for the pleasure. OK? OK.

I haven't seen this gem in many years. I rented it from the big "B" video rental store over and over again. If I had more of a criminal bent, I'd have made myself a copy, or even better "lose" it and pay them for it. It is a lovely movie with a happy ending. It evoked emotions, made me believe it. The characters were real and at the same time larger than life. The actors were all accomplished in their craft. The location was perfect. I'm not one to pay attention to how they made the movie unless it stinks, this one made me notice how VERY well it was done. This is probably my all time favorite. I tried to expose friends to it, but with little success. I choose to believe that I am right and the rest of the world is wrong in regards to this particular movie. If you ever get a chance, try this one.

This comedy drama is a relatively undiscovered jewel of a movie. I saw it only once about 15 plus years ago, so frankly have forgotten many of the details. However, I see very few comments posted so felt obligated to add my praise. For starters, this movie features lovely scenery of the Italian countryside as well as views of Rome. However, its chief merit is that it's a gentle, hopeful story with some quietly amusing moments.

Leo XIV is a new Pope who has become disillusioned with his tightly booked schedules, official audiences, and regular briefings on world affairs. He feels out of touch with the ordinary individuals outside the Vatican's walls, wonders if he has any effect on their lives, and misses daily contact with people as an ordinary priest. One day while chasing a windblown paper of gardening instructions, he is inadvertently locked out of the Vatican. The Pope makes his way to Montepetra, an obscure, impoverished village which he has overheard is in need of a priest, and thus 'goes missing' from the Vatican for a time. He finds himself helping the poor village peasants and in the process, rediscovers the joys he misses from being a regular priest where he is able to clearly see his impact upon those he serves.

Tom Conti is both compelling and endearing in the role of Pope Leo XIV. He conveys very effectively this Pope's strengths, his approachability and lack of self righteous piety, as well as exposing his sense of humour and vulnerability to temptation...his human side. It is the first time I saw Tom Conti act and I was so impressed by his portrayal in this movie that I've been a fan of his ever since.

Perhaps this film isn't that realistic, as Pope Leo appears a bit young to have been chosen for the Fisherman's Shoes and his unexplained absence from the Vatican seems unlikely. However, do we always need realism? This movie shows that even a Pope can feel trapped and have self doubts, though despite undergoing something of a minor crisis, this man's deep faith is never really in question. It is an unexpectedly lovely, optimistic, and inspiring tale that can be enjoyed by anyone, including non Catholics. Personally, I would love to locate it to watch again.

I have not seen this movie in over 15 years, I am sure. I saw this movie because I tried something a bit different one day. I had a hankering to watch something that I would really like, so I came into the video rental store one time and asked the attendant, "Can you recommend a movie that is really good that I would not even know about, one that might be a real sleeper?" (A sleeper is something that looks rather ho hum on the outside, but is great on the inside.) He gave me Saving Grace, and told me that I would not be disappointed. Man, he was ever right! What a wonderful film. I saw it only once, and ever since I have been wondering if I could buy it. (I have looked on e auction site without success...so far) I have yet to find this movie. BTW- I have since gone into video stores and asked the same kind of question in hopes of finding other movies that would be so well done, but have NEVER had another recommendation that matched SAVING GRACE. I believe that you will not be disappointed with Saving Grace as well, IF you find it.

Others have already synopsized the movie for you, so I will just stick with the fun stuff...

As a longtime fan, I have an old VHS tape with three of Tom Conti's very best performances on it, all recorded off cable back in the late 80's: The Gospel According to Vic; Reuben, Reuben; and Saving Grace. This movie is my favorite of the three. I've probably seen it ten times. I will admit that most of the reason I love the movie hinges on Conti's delicate, relaxed performance. It's damn near perfect.

But you also get some delightful work from the magnificent Giancarlo Giannini. "You're Pope Leo, no? You're Pope Leo, yes." And a hoot of turn by adorable Angelo Evans --- the real life gypsy kid from Robert Duvall's oddball semi-doc, Angelo, My Love --- in his only real acting role. Whatever happened to that kid? He's so cute as the little gangster, Guiliano, whom Conti's character befriends.

There's also a very sweet almost-love-story and some funny stuff by Fernando Rey as Pope Leo's trusted confidante, Stefano. Eddie Olmos provides some menace as the head gangster in Montepetra.

Oh, just see it! You'll love it. I must warn you though that I think they sold the movie way wrong by calling it a comedy. It's a drama with humor. But it's definitely a feel-good flick.

When I watch this movie I marvel at its simplicity and its dual profundity. A beautiful story of goodness,temptation,loss of faith and regaining it,the ultimate triumph of the human spirit. This movie should be watched at least once a year like "A Christmas Carol for much the same reason.Tom Conti is the perfect choice as Pope. Everyone in the cast gives credence to their roles.I liked, NO I LOVED this movie!!!!!