Cardinals Observe Conclave for Insights into Upcoming papal election

Edward Berger's gripping film "Conclave" captivated audiences last year by delving into the secretive and ritualistic process of electing a new pope, offering a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the Catholic Church. As the world now watches the real-life conclave unfold following the death of Pope Francis in late April, the influence of Berger's cinematic portrayal is evident. The film, featuring the esteemed Ralph Fiennes as the dean of the College of Cardinals, has been praised for its accuracy by a papal cleric involved in the actual conclave process, as reported by Politico. This cleric noted that some Cardinals have even watched the film in theaters, highlighting its impact and relevance.

Pope Francis's passing, just months after the film's release, has triggered the need for a new papal election. Starting on Wednesday, May 7, 133 Cardinals from around the globe will gather in the Sistine Chapel to vote for the next leader of the Catholic Church. A significant number of these Cardinals were appointed by Pope Francis and have never experienced a conclave before. For these participants, especially those from smaller or more remote parishes, "Conclave" serves as a valuable educational tool, providing insights into a process they might otherwise struggle to understand. This real-world application of the film underscores the power of cinema to inform and influence even the most sacred of traditions.