Pope Francis Film: The Production and Controversy Behind the Movie
The inspiration for the cinematic portrayal of Pope Francis began the moment director Daniele Luchetti witnessed the Pope's first appearance on the balcony of St. Peter's Square. This powerful image sparked a vision for a film that would capture the life and essence of the pontiff, leading to a production characterized by international collaboration and a commitment to authenticity.
The Creative Vision and Production
The film's script was a collaborative effort between Daniele Luchetti and Martín Salinas. Luchetti explicitly stated his intention to avoid hagiography—the writing of the lives of saints in an idealized or overly flattering manner. While the resulting film presents a generally positive portrayal, the director aimed for a grounded depiction of the man.
Interestingly, the production team attempted to contact Pope Francis for guidance, but the Pope did not provide any direction for the project. Despite this lack of direct involvement, Monsignor Guillermo Karcher, a close associate of the Pope, later described the movie as "truthful."
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Logistics and Financing
Produced by Pietro Valsecchi and Taodue, and financed by Mediaset, the film was a massive undertaking. The production spanned 15 weeks of filming across three countries: Italy, Germany, and Argentina. To maintain cultural authenticity, the film was shot in Spanish and featured a diverse cast from Argentina, Chile, and Spain, supported by approximately 3,000 extras.
The total production cost was 13 million euros, which is approximately 14 million dollars. To complete the sensory experience, composer Arturo Cardelús provided the film's soundtrack.
Key Facts
- Director: Daniele Luchetti
- Screenwriters: Daniele Luchetti and Martín Salinas
- Budget: 13 million euros (~14 million dollars)
- Filming Locations: Italy, Germany, and Argentina
- Production Duration: 15 weeks
- Cast Origin: Argentina, Chile, and Spain
- Financing: Mediaset
Production Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Language | Spanish |
| Extras | Approximately 3,000 |
| Soundtrack | Arturo Cardelús |
| Production Companies | Taodue / Mediaset |
Legal Disputes and Allegations
The film's journey was not without conflict. Writer Evangelina Himitian claimed that the movie was an illegal adaptation of her book, Francis, the People's Pope (Francisco, el Papa de la gente). Himitian alleged that the film relied on her research and meetings she had with the production team.
The records show that in March 2014, producer Pietro Valsecchi acquired an option to adapt Himitian's biography, though he ultimately chose not to exercise that option. Valsecchi denied the allegations of illegal adaptation, asserting that the film was based on multiple sources. He further argued that the 40,000 euro option fee would have been a trivial part of the overall budget if the film had been based solely on her book. Notably, Himitian had not yet seen the film at the time she made her initial claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Pope Francis help the filmmakers?
No. Despite attempts by the production team to contact him, the Pope did not provide any guidance for the film.
Where was the movie filmed?
The production took place in Italy, Germany, and Argentina over a period of 15 weeks.
What was the budget for the production?
The film cost 13 million euros, which is roughly 14 million dollars.
Why did Evangelina Himitian sue or make claims against the film?
She claimed the film was an illegal adaptation of her book, Francis, the People's Pope, and that it utilized her research and meetings with the team.
How did the producer respond to the plagiarism claims?
Pietro Valsecchi denied the allegations, stating the film used multiple sources and that the option to adapt the book was not exercised.