‘In the wake of Pope Francis’s passing on April 21, 2025, the political thriller Conclave has experienced a significant increase in viewership.
The film, which delves into the secretive process of electing a new pope, has resonated with audiences seeking insight into the Vatican’s inner workings during this period of transition.
Conclave, directed by Edward Berger and based on Robert Harris’s novel, offers a dramatized portrayal of the papal election process.
The film’s release coinciding with real-world events has amplified its relevance, drawing viewers interested in the complexities of Vatican politics.
The narrative centers on Cardinal Lawrence, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, who navigates the intricate dynamics of the College of Cardinals as they convene to select the next pontiff.
Fiennes’s performance captures the internal conflicts and moral dilemmas faced by those within the Church’s hierarchy.
Director Edward Berger aimed to present a nuanced depiction of the conclave, focusing on the human elements behind the rituals.
“I wanted to evoke this feeling of mystery, paranoia, claustrophobia, and heaviness,” Berger explained, emphasizing the film’s atmospheric tension.
The film’s ensemble cast, including John Lithgow and Stanley Tucci, contributes to its compelling portrayal of ecclesiastical politics.
Lithgow, reflecting on his role, noted the inherent tension between personal ambition and spiritual devotion within the Church’s leadership.
As the College of Cardinals prepares to convene on May 7 to elect Pope Francis’s successor, Conclave offers viewers a timely exploration of the challenges and intricacies involved in such a pivotal decision.
The film’s resurgence underscores the public’s enduring interest in the intersection of faith, power, and tradition within the Catholic Church.
