Cardinals Turn to Oscar-Winning Film Conclave for Insight During Papal Election

Following the death of Pope Francis on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, the College of Cardinals convened to elect his successor. In a historic decision, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, a Chicago native, was elected on May 8, 2025, becoming Pope Leo XIV—the first American and the first member of the Order of Saint Augustine to ascend to the papacy. His election marks a significant moment in the Catholic Church's history, reflecting a blend of tradition and modernity.

Amidst the solemn proceedings of the conclave, some cardinals and clerics reportedly sought guidance from an unexpected source: the 2024 Oscar-winning film Conclave, directed by Edward Berger. The film, which dramatizes the intricate process of electing a new pope, saw a surge in viewership following Pope Francis's passing. According to Luminate, a media analytics firm, streaming of Conclave spiked by 283 percent, jumping from 1.8 million minutes viewed the day before the Pope's death to 6.9 million minutes by April 21.

A report from Politico highlighted that several cardinals and clerics watched Conclave ahead of their voting sessions. An unnamed priest described the film as “remarkably accurate,” noting its usefulness as a “helpful research tool,” especially for those less familiar with the intricacies of Vatican politics and conclave protocols. Some even viewed the film in cinemas to better understand the process they were about to undertake.

Religious scholars have praised Conclave for its fidelity to real-life church procedures, even as it takes certain dramatic liberties. Euronews Culture conducted an analysis detailing where the film aligns with authentic practices and where it diverges for narrative effect.

Based on Robert Harris's bestselling novel, Conclave follows Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, as he navigates the complexities of a papal election over three days in the Vatican. The narrative delves into the political maneuverings and personal revelations that influence the selection of a new pope. The film garnered eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Supporting Actress, ultimately winning Best Adapted Screenplay for Peter Straughan.

Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost on September 14, 1955, in Chicago, has a rich history of service within the Church. He joined the Order of Saint Augustine as a young man and was ordained a priest in 1982. His extensive missionary work in Peru and leadership roles, including serving as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops, have equipped him with a global perspective. His election is seen as a continuation of Pope Francis's emphasis on social justice, environmental stewardship, and outreach to marginalized communities. 

In his first address as pope, Leo XIV expressed gratitude for Pope Francis's legacy and called for unity and peace among all nations. His leadership is anticipated to navigate the Church through contemporary challenges, maintaining a balance between tradition and progressive values.