Saving Grace (1986 film)

Embassy Pictures

Company type	Film production and distribution company
Industry	Film
Fate	Last film released in 1986

Saving Grace is a 1986 comedy-drama feature helmed by director Robert M. Young, produced by Herbert F. Solow, and starring Tom Conti, Giancarlo Giannini, alongside Edward James Olmos. Adapted from Celia Gittelson's novel, the script was penned by Richard Kramer and David S. Ward under an assumed name.

This title marked the last film released by Embassy Pictures.

The movie gained renewed interest following the election of an actual Pope Leo XIV, who adopted the same papal name as depicted in the film.

Plot

A year into his tenure, the young Pope Leo XIV (Conti) longs to engage with everyday people as he once did prior to his papacy. Following a meeting with a deaf-mute girl from a village without a priest, he secretly departs the Vatican to visit Montepetra, a struggling rural community. Masking his identity, he uncovers the village’s pressing challenges: repairing a damaged aqueduct and regaining economic independence. Despite minimal expertise and relying on resourceful street children, he embarks on reconstruction efforts while facing resistance from local criminals led by Ciolino (Olmos), who benefits financially from the community’s reliance on external aid.

Production and release

Shot on location throughout Italy, including Rome, Mantua, and the deserted town of Craco, Saving Grace had its U.S. debut on May 2, 1986, followed by its Philippine release on April 11, 1987.

Critical reception

Walter Goodman of The New York Times observed, "Tom Conti remains one of the most captivating actors available; however, even with support from international performers such as Giancarlo Giannini, Erland Josephson, and Fernando Rey, Saving Grace cannot transcend its overly sentimental nature."