A Man Named John (1965): cast, story & where to watch
1965 · Film · ★ 6.9

Released in 1965, A Man Named John is a drama and history film directed by Ermanno Olmi, running about 90 minutes.
What it’s about. Based on the diary Pope John XXIII kept between the ages of 14 and 18, his lifelong concern for tolerance, the underprivileged, and world peace is told. Rod Steiger, in the central role, acts as "intermediary" between the Pope and the audience, interpreting John's words, thoughts and actions. Steiger visits the actual places in which John lived, recreating the conditions, environment, and forces that affected his development. Through this unusual technique, we are brought close to an extraordinary man - one who's able to win the love of many people of all faiths.
Who’s in it. A Man Named John stars Rod Steiger as The Intermediary, Adolfo Celi as Msgr. Radini Tedeschi, Giorgo Fortunato as Segretario del Nunzio Roncalli and Ottone Candiani as Il Prete Peccatore di Venezia, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.9/10, A Man Named John has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch A Man Named John page.
If you liked it. Fans of A Man Named John tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch A Man Named John (1965)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for A Man Named John change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is A Man Named John worth watching?
- A Man Named John holds an audience score of 6.9 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama and history. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in A Man Named John?
- A Man Named John stars Rod Steiger, Adolfo Celi, Giorgo Fortunato, Ottone Candiani and Alfonso Orlando.
- When was A Man Named John released?
- A Man Named John was released in 1965, with a runtime of about 90 minutes.
