A Man Named John

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.

Directed by Ermanno Olmi

Top cast

Rod Steiger

The Intermediary

Adolfo Celi

Msgr. Radini Tedeschi

G

Giorgo Fortunato

Segretario del Nunzio Roncalli

O

Ottone Candiani

Il Prete Peccatore di Venezia

A

Alfonso Orlando

Il Parrroco

Alberto Rossi

Angelo Roncalli - Age 7

G

Giovanni Rossi

Angelo Roncalli - Age 10

F

Fabrisio Rossi

Angelo Roncalli - Age 4

Pietro Germi

Pontiff's Father

R

Rita Bertocchi

Pontiff's Mother

A

Antonio Bertocchi

Uncle Xavier

A

Antonio Ruttigni

Don Pietro, Parrocco di Carviso

John XXIII.

Self (archive footage) (uncredited)

Details