UR International Film Series: The Pope's Toilet September 18, 2009

(Also showing Sept. 20)

Set in 1988, The Pope’s Toilet is a moving tale of adversity and enterprise examining the frenzied activities that ensue as news hits a small Uruguayan town that the Pope is paying a visit. Expecting many thousands of tourists to pour in from nearby Brazil, Beto (César Troncoso) and his neighbors see an opportunity to make a profit out of the visit. While most villagers plan food or souvenirs stalls, Beto and his family build a toilet that can be used by the hordes they’re expecting, but will all go according to plan? Co-written and directed by César Chalone and Enrique Fernández, and shot in an attractive documentary style, The Pope’s Toilet is a celebration of hope, humor and resilience as it dares to tackle the disconnect between the Church and the poor. The Pope’s Toilet is being presented in honor/ collaboration with the University of Richmond’s first Latin American/ Hispanic Heritage Month.

Official Website: http://library.richmond.edu/mrc/international-film-series.html