Pope John Paul II

Rating:
Summary: Could have been more than it was
Review: Purchased this out of curiosity as to what it might reveal from a historical footage point of view. Was mildly disappointed in that it was a brief documentary with a British narrator best left for a museum exhibit. Considering the Vatican is in possession of footage from the time of Leo XIII as well as that of Pius XI and possibly something of the other two neglected popes:Pius X and Benedict XV, the slight treatment given is somewhat disquieting. Nonetheless the footage of Pius XII is interesting in regards to his coronation, and the enthusiasm he had for riding around on the sedia gestatoria (portable throne). John XXIII was portrayed in a warm light and gives an idea of what he was like. Paul VI came off a little cold. It would've been nice to have full soundbites sans narration with perhaps a subtitle of translation so that the popes could be heard in their own voices. John Paul I was glossed over a little too much. There could've been more shown in regards to the "smiling Pope". All of the announcements of election also could've been shown. A DVD would be the perfect medium for this. It felt somewhat rushed and slightly low budget. Still for collectors, enthusiasts and historians, not to mention the curious, this is an interesting trinket for your viewing pleasure.

Rating:
Summary: Pope John Paul II - The Movie
Review: This movie was extremely inspirational. I so enjoyed it! It covers a full span of the Holy Father's life from boyhood to adulthood. The story line shows the Pope's humaness, his intellect, and his great love of God. It also revealed the struggles and strength of the Polish people during World War II. I have recommended it to friends who have equally enjoyed it.

Rating:
Summary: Pope John Paul II: His Biography & Tridentine Mass
Review: This video was done by an amateur, both in the video editing and audio editing. The sound was awful with the background music too loud. The video was narrated by someone who wasn't very professional.

I thought that the Tridentine Mass would have had John Paul II preciding over it. But it was just some priest from California.

I was very disappointed in this set. It's something I wouldn't bother to watch again.