Based on the medieval legend of Pope Joan, who was made Pope for a brief period around 855 A.D. The movie presents her existence as fact, though it is questionable that Pope Joan really did exist, and portrays her relationships with other notables of the time.
Acting
Liv Ullmann's eyes contain multitudes. The patriarchy never stood a chance.
Costume
Papal robes have never looked this good on anyone, before or since.
Production
1970s budget medieval Europe: slightly dusty, deeply committed, weirdly horny.
Director
Michael Anderson
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
Liv Ullmann was pregnant during filming and the production just... worked around it. The 70s!
The Pope Joan legend persisted for centuries because it terrified the Church—this film got banned in several countries for keeping that fear alive.
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