Pope Francis: A Man of His Word

His sincerity offers an alluring catharsis, a hope-by-proxy. We don't have to believe, just as long as we can believe that he believes.

A non-denominational sermon, under the cinematic care of an artist first, Pope Francis fanboy second.

How well can you really know a Pope, anyway? In "A Man of His Word," the answer is elusive.

While the film is best for fans of the cloth, non-Catholics, too, will gain insight into one of the most prominent leaders in the world.

It slyly dispenses with that old canard that we must know the artist intimately to feel moved, humbled and astonished by his art.

Whether he's washing the feet of prisoners in America, visiting sick children in Africa, or praying with hurricane victims in Asia, Pope Francis doesn't merely preach empathy, responsibility, and accountability, he lives it.

Not only is there not enough storytelling in A Man of His Word, but the film is also quick to shy away from controversy.

Intended by Wenders to be a personal journey with the Pope, this documentary is more about what the man says that it is about who he is.

Nobody can get angry with the Pope and his message, but the sobering audiovisual form that this work acquires irritates even the most believing of the spectators. [Full Review in Spanish]

In the end, Pope Francis - A Man of His Word will turn out to be an enlightening documentary for laymen... but perhaps more conventional for all those familiar with the words and the work of this revolutionary spiritual guide. [Full review in Spanish]

Wim Wenders gets close to the Pope by pontificating through discourse. [Full Review in Spanish]

Only ever remains skin deep; the filmic equivalent of reading from the prayer book and listening to the sermon, rather than interrogating and internalising the words contained within.