The premiere of HBO's The New Pope opens with Pope Pius XIII in a coma, prompting Cardinal Voiello to engineer the election of the radical, reform-minded Pope Francis II. Director Paolo Sorrentino continues his "Neon Baroque" style, exploring themes of power and faith through the short-lived, tumultuous papacy of Francis II before transitioning to the arrival of John Malkovich’s character. For a detailed breakdown of the episode, read the full recap at Vulture . The New Pope Review: Season 1 Episode 1 - Tell-Tale TV