Edward Berger's thrilling film Conclave captivated audiences last year by delving into the secretive and ritualistic process of electing a new pope, a facet of Catholicism rarely seen by the public. As cardinals from around the globe prepare to participate in a real-life conclave following the recent passing of Pope Francis, the influence of Berger's cinematic portrayal is strikingly evident. Some of these religious leaders have turned to the film for guidance on the conclave process.
A papal cleric involved in the conclave ritual shared with Politico that Berger's film, featuring the esteemed Ralph Fiennes as the dean of the College of Cardinals, has been praised for its accuracy. The cleric noted that "some [Cardinals] have watched it in the cinema," indicating the film's impact on those who will soon be part of this historic event.
Pope Francis passed away in late April, just months after Conclave was released, prompting the need for a new papal election. Starting on Wednesday, May 7, 133 cardinals will gather in the Sistine Chapel to deliberate and vote on the next leader of the global Catholic Church.
Many of these cardinals were appointed by Pope Francis and have never experienced a conclave before. This lack of firsthand experience makes the film an invaluable resource, particularly for those from smaller or more remote parishes who might not have easy access to such information. The power of film to educate and prepare these leaders for their pivotal roles underscores the unique intersection of art and real-world events.
