Pope Francis: A Cultural Reflection on His Legacy

Mon Oct 20 2025 06:34:11 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As Pope Francis passes, artistic representations of the papacy invoke deep contemplation on his influence.

In the wake of Pope Francis’ passing at 88, the world is invited to reflect on a pivotal era in the Catholic Church through art and cinema. Catholicism has been a creative force for centuries, inspiring awe with its stunning cathedrals, masterful paintings, and profound literature. His death on April 21, 2025, has reignited conversations about his legacy, prompting a look at various artistic works that encapsulate the era of his papacy.

A significant portrayal includes the film “The Two Popes,” released in 2019, which captures a candid moment in the life of Francis, then-Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio, and his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI. The movie opens at a solemn gathering of cardinals in Rome following the death of Pope John Paul II. Amidst the gravity of the occasion, a humorous scene unfolds in a bathroom where Bergoglio, portrayed by Jonathan Pryce, innocently whistles the tune of Abba's "Dancing Queen" when questioned by Ratzinger, played by Anthony Hopkins. This moment symbolizes Francis’s ability to blend tradition with a modern touch, reflecting his approach to leading the global Catholic community.

As tributes pour in from worldwide leaders and communities, discussions of succession and potential successors to the papacy now echo through the hallowed halls of the Vatican. The cultural narratives surrounding Pope Francis's years are likely to continue unfolding, marking a profound chapter in the intersection of faith and artistry.