Series Review: The Young Pope. Director: Paolo Sorrentino.

Hello, everyone! I hope you are all doing well. Today, I shall be reviewing 'The Young Pope' streaming on Netflix directed by Paolo Sorrentino. If you enjoy political dramas rich with authenticity, witticisms, sarcasm and life advice, then this is one series that should not be missed. This series directed by Paolo Sorrentino deserves all the acknowledgements and accolades. 

 The series effectively shatters the thought that in the modern world traditions are a thing of the past and religious figures are titular heads and their designation is decorative. Set in the seemingly modern day Vatican City State, the series depicts a variety of customs and traditions which gives the audience a sneak-peek into the mesmerizing Vatican culture. 

The Papal Elections, the politics it involves, the lobbying, the charades played and the end result is also very interestingly portrayed wherein the audience cannot help but think of the difference between the Papal and the General Elections, where the faith of the people in God and their own men is pried upon and the belief in God's men and their own representatives is targeted. In all of this mess, there is much speculation regarding the election of the forty seven years young Lenny Belardo as the Pope. 

Since the protagonist of the series is the Pope himself, it is needless to say that there is acknowledgement of the existence of various truths. Truths about relationships, our feelings, our darkest thoughts and yes, ourselves. Even though philosophical questions that require reasoning are involved, there is a balance maintained between being philosophical and being pretentious or sanctimonious.  The way in which religious men are enthusiastic in Church activities, but inert when it comes to the implementation of its Gospel is characterized in a way that makes the audience think.

Jude Law, who has played the lead role of the forty seven years young Pope, Lenny Belardo as well as Diane Keaton who portrays Sister Mary look and embody their parts. Silvio Orlando, who embodies the Machiavellian Cardinal Secretary of State, Angelo Voiello has done his job par excellence. The cast leaves a desired effect on the audience and piques curiosity at the right moments. Hence, the success quotient is enormous as well. 

Although it may appear that the series is a single man's journey, it also focuses on the ensemble cast. It is the journey of one man individually, yet a collective one. The direction is balanced, the selection of music in every episode as well as the opening theme music is tasteful. Not only is the audience given a sneak-peek into the Vatican's internal workings, it is also introduced to a volley of new, good music. The script is philosophically beautiful and no part of it is redundant. 

The series is not fit for a family audience, but it must be definitely watched alone. There are ten episodes, each ranging to an hour or so and can be binge watched over a weekend. Overall, the series is a must watch and effectively conveys the message it purports to send. The Young Pope serves not only as entertainment, but also infotainment with a tinge of spirituality. 

Author: Ms. Radhika Sunil Vaidya. 

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