Edward Berger's gripping papal thriller, *Conclave*, captivated audiences last year, offering an unprecedented glimpse into the secretive and ritualistic election of a pope—a process known as a conclave. As cardinals from across the globe prepare to convene for a real-life conclave, the influence of Berger's film is strikingly evident. Remarkably, some of these religious leaders have turned to the movie for guidance on the upcoming event.
A papal cleric involved in the conclave process shared with Politico that Berger's film, featuring the esteemed Ralph Fiennes as the dean of the College of Cardinals, has been praised as "remarkably accurate" by the cardinals themselves. The cleric further noted that "some [Cardinals] have watched it in the cinema," indicating the film's role in preparing them for the solemn duty ahead.
The passing of Pope Francis in late April, mere months after the film's release, set the stage for this real-life conclave. His death initiated the process where 133 high-ranking clerics from around the world will gather in the Sistine Chapel to deliberate and vote for the next global leader of the Catholic Church.
A significant number of the cardinals assembling in Rome on Wednesday, May 7, were appointed by Pope Francis. Many of these cardinals are experiencing their first conclave, making the film an invaluable resource. This is particularly true for those from smaller, more remote parishes who may find the film's depiction helpful in understanding the intricacies of the conclave process.
