The Vatican, with its rich history and mysterious aura, has long been a source of inspiration for filmmakers. This collection brings together ten action-packed films that delve into the intrigue, power struggles, and hidden secrets of the Vatican. Whether you're a fan of high-stakes chases, covert operations, or tales of faith and redemption, these films offer a unique blend of action and ecclesiastical drama, all with a British flair.
The Shoes of the Fisherman (1968)
Description: A Russian archbishop becomes Pope and must navigate global politics and Vatican intrigue, with action sequences involving espionage and international diplomacy.
Fact: The film was one of the first to depict a non-Italian pope, and it features a cameo by John Gielgud as the Dean of the College of Cardinals.
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The Exorcist (1973)
Description: While not directly about the Vatican, this classic horror film involves priests from the Vatican performing an exorcism, making it an essential part of this collection due to its religious themes and action elements.
Fact: The film was nominated for ten Academy Awards, including Best Picture, and it's often cited as one of the scariest movies ever made.
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The Godfather Part III (1990)
Description: While primarily a mafia film, it includes significant Vatican intrigue as Michael Corleone seeks redemption through the Church, leading to action-packed confrontations.
Fact: The film features scenes shot in the Vatican, and it was the final film in the Godfather trilogy.
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The Da Vinci Code (2006)
Description: This film follows symbologist Robert Langdon as he unravels a murder mystery linked to the Vatican's deepest secrets, involving the Holy Grail and the Priory of Sion. Its action-packed narrative and Vatican intrigue make it a perfect fit for this list.
Fact: The film was shot in various locations including Lincoln Cathedral, which stood in for Westminster Abbey. The Vatican officially condemned the book and film for its portrayal of the Church.
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Angels & Demons (2009)
Description: A sequel to 'The Da Vinci Code,' this film sees Robert Langdon racing against time to prevent a terrorist attack on the Vatican during the papal conclave, blending action with religious conspiracy.
Fact: The film was shot at the real CERN facility in Switzerland, and the Vatican allowed filming in St. Peter's Square, a rare occurrence.
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The Rite (2011)
Description: A skeptical seminary student is sent to Rome to study exorcism, leading to a confrontation with real demonic forces, showcasing the Vatican's involvement in such matters.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book 'The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist' by Matt Baglio, who attended exorcism courses in Rome.
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The Pope's Exorcist (2023)
Description: Based on the life of Father Gabriele Amorth, the Vatican's chief exorcist, this film blends action with the supernatural, exploring the Vatican's secretive exorcism practices.
Fact: Russell Crowe stars as Father Amorth, and the film was shot in various locations in Italy, including Rome.
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The Cardinal (1963)
Description: This epic drama follows the rise of a young priest through the ranks of the Catholic Church, touching on Vatican politics and action-packed moments during WWII.
Fact: The film was nominated for six Academy Awards, including Best Picture.
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The Vatican Tapes (2015)
Description: This horror-thriller involves the Vatican's secret exorcism team tackling a case of demonic possession, providing a unique twist on the action genre with its religious context.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life accounts of exorcisms, and it features a cameo by Cardinal Dolan, the Archbishop of New York.
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The Vatican (2013)
Description: A political thriller set in the Vatican, where a new pope must navigate through corruption and conspiracy to maintain the Church's integrity, with plenty of action-packed scenes.
Fact: The series was developed by Paul Attanasio, known for his work on 'House' and 'Donnie Brasco.'
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