The true story of Pius XII, the pope who served during World War II. The film *Under the Roman Sky* depicts the complex situation the pope faced during this difficult period and also tells the stories of many Jews who were saved, thanks in part to Pius XII.

The film opens with the occupation of Rome by German troops. Pressure on the Jewish community living in Rome gradually intensifies. Eventually, deportations take place, but thanks to diplomatic interventions by the Pope himself and his associates, thousands of lives are saved.

The film examines the issue of the Pope’s “silence,” which stemmed primarily from a desire to avoid making the situation even worse. This was evidenced, for example, by the consequences following statements made by a bishop in the Netherlands. In addition, the film highlights the Pope’s earlier vocal warnings against Nazism, particularly in the encyclical *Mit brenender Sorge*.

The film alternates between two main storylines: events in which the Pope himself is the central figure, and events from the lives of a young Jewish couple and the Jewish community.

The young couple experiences the brutality of persecution firsthand. Despite this, they strive to help many others who are being persecuted.

Italy, 2010

Crew: Christian Duguay;

Cast: James Cromwell, Ettore Bassi, Cesare Bocci, Ken Duken, Alessandra Mastronardi, Marco Foschi, Vincent Riotta, Andrea Tidona, Christine Neubauer, Miguel Herz-Kestranek;

Parents’ Guide:

A few kissing scenes between the lovers David and Miriam. A Jewish woman who behaves provocatively. A low-cut neckline.

Several people are shot. A few scenes of people being beaten, such as during deportation. Contemplation of suicide.

The statement “…not even God will save us.” A few instances of swearing.

A few instances of drinking wine and smoking.

Several of the Pope’s statements in the film give the impression that he cares only about Roman citizens and not much about others; this does not reflect reality.

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