
Jon, did you learn anything new about Pope John Paul ll by playing him in the movie that you didn't know about him before?
- Heidi Aurora, Minnesota
Jon Voight responds: Everything was new in a certain sense, because I got so deeply involved with the character. I was always discovering new things. But I was particularly struck by the depth and breadth of his understanding and influence. It was astounding how much information he had--there was almost nothing he didn’t address during his pontificate. And the other thing was that my intuition was verified. He was a very funny person. He had a terrific sense of humor.
Cary, as far as I know, this is the first time you've played a role in tandem with another actor. How have you dealt with that challenge? You've played a few historical characters so far--is this one particularly challenging to you, or do you approach them all the same way?
- Ella, Miami
Cary Elwes responds: I had already worked with Jon Voight in "Uprising" so we were already friends when we started working on this project. It helped a great deal. I approach historical characters all the same way, but John Paul II was so beloved by so many, it was more of a challenge. A lot more work had to be done.
Dear Mr. Voight and Mr. Elwes, Have you been exposed to Catholicism before making this movie? What is your view of the Catholic Church now that you both portrayed one of the most amazing people in the Catholic Church? How has the person or the life & death of the late Pope John Paul II affected your life? Thank you.
- Elsa, Manhattan, Kansas
Cary Elwes responds: My Catholicism helped me a great deal. It made me better prepared for the religious ceremonies. Growing up as an altar boy gave me insight into those rituals. I had the good fortune of meeting John Paul II when I was 22 years old. That privilege allowed me to get to know the man and form a deeper appreciation for him.
Jon: If you could, what one question would you ask of John Paul II? I want to thank you--you are a wonderful man to take on this role. If the film is half as good as the pictures look this will be a classic for years to come. May God bless you.
- Marc, East Haven CT
Jon Voight responds: I would have a number of questions about the current situation with the Church. But if I had to choose one, I’d have to ask him about celibacy. I’d want to know how he feels about celibacy, from his perspective now.














