Paolo Sorrentino

Newly elected Pope Pius XIII, a.k.a. Lenny Belardo, defies Vatican expectations as he begins his reign.

Lenny sets down the ground rules for his first speech at St. Peter’s. Cardinal Spencer spurns an olive branch.

After his inaugural speech makes it clear that he will not be manipulated, Lenny makes enemies within the Vatican. However, he gains one ardent follower.

Believing that the only way to end Lenny’s papacy is to involve him in a scandal, Cardinal Secretary of State Voiello blackmails Ester to seduce the pontiff.

Lenny enjoys a night away from the Vatican with a childhood friend, whilst Voiello has a crisis of conscience when an opportunity presents itself.

Nine months into Lenny’s papacy, he gives his first audience to the Italian prime minister. Dussolier carries out a controversial edict.

Dussollier blames himself after a tragedy and returns to Honduras. With Lenny’s supporters dwindling, he questions whether his papacy is coming to an end.

Reeling from a personal loss, Pope Pius XIII makes an impulsive decision to visit Africa, meeting a revered missionary who stirs mixed feelings inside him.