Edward Berger's thrilling film Conclave captivated audiences last year, offering a rare glimpse into the secretive world of papal elections within the Catholic Church. As Cardinals from across the globe prepare to convene for a real-life conclave, the influence of Berger's cinematic portrayal is strikingly evident. Some of these religious leaders have turned to the film for insights into the upcoming event, highlighting the powerful impact of cinema on real-world events.
A papal cleric involved in the conclave ritual shared with Politico that Berger's film, featuring the esteemed actor Ralph Fiennes as the dean of the College of Cardinals, is considered "remarkably accurate" by some of the Cardinals themselves. The cleric noted that "some [Cardinals] have watched it in the cinema," underscoring the film's role as both entertainment and educational resource.
The passing of Pope Francis in late April, just months after the release of Conclave, initiated the conclave process. This significant event will see 133 high-ranking clerics gather in the Sistine Chapel starting Wednesday, May 7, to elect the next leader of the global Catholic Church.
A majority of the Cardinals attending were appointed by Pope Francis, many of whom have never experienced a conclave before. This makes the film an invaluable resource, particularly for those from smaller and more remote parishes who might otherwise struggle to fully understand the intricacies of the ritual. Thus, it's no surprise that Conclave has become a crucial tool for these religious leaders as they prepare for this historic event.
