A Man Named John

Story

Synopsis

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.

Director

Ermanno Olmi

Writers

Ermanno Olmi, Vincenzo Labella, John XXIII.

Language

Italian

Country

United Kingdom, Italy

Release date

19 November 1965

Ensemble

Cast

• 

  Rod Steiger

  The Intermediary

• 

  Adolfo Celi

  Msgr. Radini Tedeschi

• Giorgo Fortunato

  Segretario del Nunzio Roncalli

• Ottone Candiani

  Il Prete Peccatore di Venezia

• Alfonso Orlando

  Il Parrroco

• 

  Alberto Rossi

  Angelo Roncalli - Age 7

• Giovanni Rossi

  Angelo Roncalli - Age 10

• Fabrisio Rossi

  Angelo Roncalli - Age 4

• 

  Pietro Germi

  Pontiff's Father

• Rita Bertocchi

  Pontiff's Mother

• Antonio Bertocchi

  Uncle Xavier

• Antonio Ruttigni

  Don Pietro, Parrocco di Carviso