Karol: A Man Who Became Pope (2005)

This is a very good film, or, mini series, of almost 3 hours duration. The historical background of Krakow occupation and Jews' sufferings is shown very well, and the Nazi atrocities are not muted or bypassed here. The main role is played by Pyotr Adamczyk and he did a great job as a the young Karol, and then a mature cardinal, and then, a Pope. There are some weaker parts, though. Of course, such a long story requires a longer film, which could make it almost impossible, but to press into so much in a 3 hour spell is a bit hastened. Then, there are certainly some weaker parts of some actors and come on, there are some obvious caricature-quality Communist figures shown almost like clowns or mere idiots. Saying that, I must admit, that this film is 1000 times better than the 2006 sequel, which is a real bore. This one is vivid, brisk, dynamic and often very very elegant work. Great film, yes, but still, for John Paul II's fans

This film is truly inspirational. Karol's philosophy of resisting Nazi and Soviet tyranny in Poland through loving is the most powerful and revolutionary idea I have heard. Maintaining Polish culture through theatre and responding with love and gratitude in all circumstances. This is an incredibly powerful form of resistance. This film is well produced. This film is in the same genre as "Gandhi"(1982) which similarly was inspiring as it showed the power of non-violent protest and resistance. In our time this message that the pen is mightier than the sword and that we must fight for and with Love and goodness provides hope and a way forward in this world of war, poverty, and deep anxiety and fear. However Karol seems to have something to add to Gandhi's example of non-violent resistance. He has a basis for building society and positively working for the progressive good of Mankind. That we may fulfil our potential in dignity and love in our Cultures and identities.I hope this film and it's sequel will be better known in the future, and get the exposure that their excellence deserves!!!

The movie is absolutely great!!! It contains some weaknesses like quite cheap special effects (attacks of German fighters, explosions,...) but these are not things that made this movie important and great. Some will say it is catholic propaganda but what else can say people that has nothing interesting to say. There are a lot of good and very good movies showing brave people who fought against evil with guns, words or irreconcilable attitude. This one is first I have ever seen where a man is fighting back by humble acceptance of everything what life had given to him. You need to be a Pole to understand life under communist governance and the importance of church and people like Wojtyla.

I will buy this movie for my collection. Excellent special effects. Movie portrayals of all characters in this historic recounting of the life of the future Pope. No heroics, just a straight forward telling of an amazing story. A joint production, it is basic, and raw, without the polish of Hollywood. I was moved by this story. Some of the child actors were a bit "overdone" but the main characters played their roles well, and honestly. They involvement of the Polish and Italian filmmakers has ensured that this movie remained accurate, but not maudlin. Seeing this story makes me realize what a truly great man John Paul was.