Ranking Every HBO Miniseries From Worst To Best

Paolo Sorrentino’s follow up to 2017’s The Young Pope doesn’t quite hit the jaw dropping, dreamlike heights of that series, but this John Malkovich-led sequel/branch off is similarly bold and distinct storytelling, with a patient approach, willingness to get deeply weird, and extraordinary performances throughout.

Without wishing to spoil the previous season, Jude Law’s titular Young Pope is no longer in the Vatican hot seat. As he convalesces in hospital, Malkovich’s John Paul III takes over, finding himself the new head of the Catholic church at the worst possible time. Controversies of the usual nature are rife, infighting is at an all time high, and to make matters worse, Law’s incapacitated pontiff has risen to nigh on saintly status in the eyes of the faithful.

Sorrentino’s lush, stately style and the deliciously big time performances from all concerned makes The New Pope unforgettable TV. It requires patience and, appropriately enough, faith in the storytelling, but it pays off in a big way - it’s like nothing else out there.