Cast
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John Goodman
as Pope Sergius II.
Johanna Wokalek
as Johanna von Ingelheim
David Wenham
as Gerold
Iain Glen
as Village Priest
Edward Petherbridge
as Aesculapius
Anatole Taubman
as Anastasius
Lotte Flack
as Johanna von Ingelheim - Age 10-14
Tigerlily Hutchinson
as Johanna von Ingelheim - Age 6-9
Jördis Triebel
as Joan's mother
Oliver Cotton
as Arsenius
Nicholas Woodeson
as Arighis
Suzanne Bertish
as Bishop Arnaldo
Richard van Weyden
as Eusthasius
Branko Tomović
as Paschal
Lenn Kudrjawizki
as Jordanes
Crew
Director
- Sönke Wortmann
Producer
- Oliver Berben
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Pope Joan examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Sönke Wortmann brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Pope Joan took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 149 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 205 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 323 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Pope Joan shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike House of Flying Daggers, which focuses more on action than character development, Pope Joan subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Order and Howards End explore similar territory, Pope Joan stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 22, 2009
- Runtime: 2h 29m
- Revenue: $28,748,076
