The Conclave: A Cinematic Dive into the Papal Election Process

As the papal conclave approaches on May 7, the film "Conclave" offers viewers a dramatized glimpse into the intense and often political world of church leadership selection, highlighting both the spiritual responsibilities and human imperfections of those involved.

The highly anticipated film "Conclave" has captured audiences with its exploration of the intricate and secluded process of selecting a new pope within the Vatican. Set to coincide with the upcoming papal conclave on May 7, in which 134 cardinals will gather to elect a successor to Pope Francis, the film provides a fascinating insight into the cloistered environment where significant decisions are made.

Adapted from Robert Harris's bestselling novel, "Conclave" portrays the cardinal-electors as they isolate themselves in the Vatican, adhering to a tradition that spans centuries. This isolation is intended to minimize external influences, although renowned theologian Stephen Bullivant notes practical considerations mean they are not entirely disconnected from the outside world. Anna Rowlands, a professor of Catholic social thought, highlights the tension between the venue's secrecy and modern society's demands for transparency.

The film delves into the dramatic atmosphere of the conclave, characterized by intense deliberations and strategic maneuvering among the cardinals. As highlighted by film editor Nick Emerson, the story emphasizes the political undertones within the electoral environment, portraying cardinals grappling with profound responsibilities amid the pressures of influence and ambition. Tina Beattie from Roehampton University discusses how the real-life dynamics, while unfolding behind closed doors, involve a substantial amount of negotiating and rapport-building in the days leading up to the formal vote.

While the film features an unknown cardinal thrust into the spotlight, in reality, the election process is somewhat more constrained. All voting cardinals have been publicly appointed by prior popes, limiting the potential for unforeseen candidates. Nonetheless, the upcoming conclave is expected to be significantly unpredictable, with around 80% of eligible voting cardinals appointed by Pope Francis, reflecting diverse global backgrounds that may steer the conclave's outcomes in unexpected directions.

Director Edward Berger's vision for "Conclave" challenges the perception of the cardinals as distant, sanctified figures, inviting audiences to see them as relatable individuals grappling with their own vulnerabilities and personal conflicts. Rowlands emphasizes that the film offers a compelling portrayal of the human elements intertwined with the sacred responsibility of electing a new pope, illustrating themes of ambition, fear, and even temptation that resonate with audiences worldwide.