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A Man Named John

1965

90 minutes

DramaHistory

Overview

Based on the diary Pope John XXIII kept between the ages of 14 and 18, his lifelong concern for tolerance, the underprivileged, and world peace is told. Rod Steiger, in the central role, acts as "intermediary" between the Pope and the audience, interpreting John's words, thoughts and actions. Steiger visits the actual places in which John lived, recreating the conditions, environment, and forces that affected his development. Through this unusual technique, we are brought close to an extraordinary man - one who's able to win the love of many people of all faiths.

Top Cast

Rod Steiger headshot

Rod Steiger

The Intermediary

Adolfo Celi headshot

Adolfo Celi

Msgr. Radini Tedeschi

Giorgo Fortunato headshot

Giorgo Fortunato

Segretario del Nunzio Roncalli

Ottone Candiani headshot

Ottone Candiani

Il Prete Peccatore di Venezia

Alfonso Orlando headshot

Alfonso Orlando

Il Parrroco

Alberto Rossi headshot

Alberto Rossi

Angelo Roncalli - Age 7

Giovanni Rossi headshot

Giovanni Rossi

Angelo Roncalli - Age 10

Fabrisio Rossi headshot

Fabrisio Rossi

Angelo Roncalli - Age 4

Pietro Germi headshot

Pietro Germi

Pontiff's Father

Rita Bertocchi headshot

Rita Bertocchi

Pontiff's Mother

Antonio Bertocchi headshot

Antonio Bertocchi

Uncle Xavier

Antonio Ruttigni headshot

Antonio Ruttigni

Don Pietro, Parrocco di Carviso

John XXIII. headshot

John XXIII.

Self (archive footage) (uncredited)