The New Pope Series: Reddit's Deep Dive & Fan Theories

Hey everyone! If you're anything like me, you probably dove headfirst into The New Pope series and then immediately went searching for fellow fanatics to dissect every single scene. Reddit, as always, has become the ultimate hub for discussions, theories, and memes surrounding this visually stunning and intellectually stimulating show. So, let's explore the depths of Reddit's obsession with The New Pope and uncover some of the juiciest fan theories and discussions!

Diving into the World of The New Pope

The New Pope, a continuation of The Young Pope, is a dazzling blend of religious iconography, political intrigue, and philosophical pondering, all wrapped up in Paolo Sorrentino's signature surreal style. Jude Law returns as Pope Pius XIII (Lenny Belardo), who is now in a coma, while John Malkovich joins the cast as the sophisticated and enigmatic John Paul III (Sir John Brannox). The series delves into themes of faith, power, and the search for meaning in a world grappling with uncertainty.

One of the things that makes The New Pope so compelling is its willingness to challenge conventional narratives. It doesn't shy away from exploring the complexities of the Catholic Church, portraying its characters as flawed, human beings struggling with their own desires and beliefs. This nuance is what fuels so much discussion and debate online, particularly on Reddit.

Why Reddit Loves The New Pope

Reddit's appeal lies in its ability to foster communities around shared interests. Subreddits dedicated to television shows, like /r/TheNewPope, become virtual water coolers where fans can gather to express their opinions, share theories, and dissect every detail of the series. The New Pope, with its intricate plot and symbolic imagery, is tailor-made for this kind of in-depth analysis. The platform offers a space where casual viewers and hardcore enthusiasts alike can engage in meaningful conversations and connect with others who appreciate the show's unique qualities.

Unpacking Reddit's Wildest The New Pope Theories

Reddit is a breeding ground for fan theories, and The New Pope is no exception. The show's ambiguous ending and surreal imagery have left viewers with plenty of questions, leading to some truly fascinating interpretations. Here are some of the most popular and intriguing theories floating around Reddit:

The Coma Dream Theory

One of the most pervasive theories suggests that the entire series, or at least significant portions of it, take place within Lenny Belardo's coma dream. Proponents of this theory point to the show's increasingly surreal and dreamlike sequences, as well as the blurring of reality and fantasy. Some believe that John Paul III is a manifestation of Lenny's subconscious, representing his intellectual and spiritual rival.

Evidence for this theory includes: The recurring motif of Lenny's comatose body, the illogical nature of certain events, and the symbolic representation of characters and themes.

Counterarguments: The show presents these events as real, and the other characters seem to interact with John Paul III as a distinct individual.

The Prophecy of the Two Popes

Another popular theory revolves around the idea that Lenny and John Paul III represent two opposing forces within the Church. Some Redditors believe that they are fulfilling a prophecy, with Lenny representing the traditional, conservative wing and John Paul III representing a more progressive, intellectual approach. The series, according to this theory, is a battle for the soul of the Catholic Church.

Evidence for this theory includes: The contrasting personalities and ideologies of the two popes, the recurring theme of duality, and the show's exploration of the tensions between tradition and modernity.

Counterarguments: The show doesn't explicitly state that there is a prophecy, and the interpretation of the characters as purely representative of opposing forces may be overly simplistic.

The Miracle of the Eyes

The miraculous opening of the little girl's eyes is a pivotal moment in the series, and Redditors have offered various interpretations of its significance. Some believe that it is a genuine miracle, demonstrating the power of faith and the possibility of divine intervention. Others see it as a more ambiguous event, perhaps a result of John Paul III's charisma or a reflection of the girl's own inner strength.

Evidence for this theory includes: The emotional impact of the scene, the lack of a rational explanation, and the show's exploration of the nature of miracles.

Counterarguments: The show leaves the interpretation open, and it is possible that there is a more mundane explanation for the event.

The Meaning of the Ending

The ending of The New Pope is famously ambiguous, leaving viewers to ponder the fate of Lenny Belardo and the future of the Church. Some Redditors believe that Lenny dies, while others suggest that he is merely in a state of transition, perhaps ascending to a higher spiritual plane. The interpretation of the ending often depends on one's overall understanding of the series and its themes.

Evidence for this theory includes: The symbolic imagery of the final scene, the show's exploration of mortality, and the ambiguity of Lenny's fate.

Counterarguments: The show doesn't provide a definitive answer, and it is possible that Lenny's story is not yet finished.

Reddit's Favorite The New Pope Discussions

Beyond the theories, Reddit is also a great place to find discussions about specific aspects of The New Pope. Here are some of the most popular topics that Redditors love to debate:

The Fashion of The New Pope

The costumes in The New Pope are absolutely stunning, and Redditors love to discuss the symbolism and artistry behind them. From Lenny's iconic white robes to John Paul III's impeccably tailored suits, the fashion in the series is a visual feast that adds another layer of meaning to the story.

The Soundtrack of The New Pope

Paolo Sorrentino is known for his impeccable taste in music, and The New Pope is no exception. The soundtrack features a mix of classical pieces, electronic tracks, and contemporary pop songs, all of which perfectly complement the show's mood and atmosphere. Redditors often share their favorite songs from the series and discuss how they enhance the viewing experience.

The Philosophy of The New Pope

The New Pope is a deeply philosophical show that explores complex themes such as faith, doubt, and the search for meaning. Redditors often engage in discussions about the show's philosophical underpinnings, drawing on various schools of thought to interpret its message.

The Humor of The New Pope

Despite its serious subject matter, The New Pope is also surprisingly funny. The show's dark humor and satirical wit provide moments of levity and make the characters more relatable. Redditors appreciate the show's ability to balance seriousness with humor, and they often share their favorite comedic moments.

Joining the The New Pope Reddit Community

If you're a fan of The New Pope, I highly recommend joining the Reddit community at /r/TheNewPope. It's a great place to connect with other fans, share your thoughts, and delve deeper into the show's many layers. Whether you're a seasoned theorist or a casual viewer, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this vibrant and engaging community.

So, what are your favorite The New Pope theories? What aspects of the show do you find most fascinating? Head over to Reddit and join the conversation! Let's dissect this masterpiece together!