By Hannah Wolke, Digital Communications Manager  

In a case of eerie timing, “Conclave,” the suspenseful 2024 drama directed by Edward Berger, has taken on a new resonance following the death of Pope Francis. 

What was once a gripping fictional narrative that should have won best cinematography at the Oscars, now feels hauntingly prescient as the real world prepares for the ritual it so vividly portrays: the election of a new pope. 

Starring Ralph Fiennes as the morally burdened Cardinal Lawrence, “Conclave” dives deep into the ceremonial, political and spiritual mechanics of selecting a new pontiff. However, it is more than just Vatican fan fiction. With the real College of Cardinals preparing for the sacred responsibility of choosing the next Bishop of Rome, the film gives global audiences a cinematic window into what is unfolding behind the sealed doors of the Sistine Chapel. 

The most immediate reason “Conclave” is relevant now is that its core subject, the death of a pope and the ensuing papal conclave, is no longer fictional. Pope Francis’ recent passing has propelled this ancient and secretive rite back into the global spotlight, making the film’s timing both coincidental and striking. 

Though based on Robert Harris’ 2016 novel and not a real pope’s demise, “Conclave” is uncannily reflective of current events. While the plot takes creative liberties, its portrayal of the conclave — the black smoke, the locked chapel, the whispered alliances, etc. — are grounded in tradition. And that blend of authenticity and drama is exactly what makes the film resonate so powerfully now. 

Why does this matter now? First, public curiosity, with people around the world suddenly Googling, “how is a new pope chosen?” the movie offers a dramatized, but digestible answer. For many, it is a first glimpse into the centuries-old tradition they have only heard about in headlines.  

Second, it is culturally relevant. “Conclave” is no mere political thriller. It explores questions of faith, leadership and the tension between tradition and reform — questions that are front and center in the Catholic Church today. 

Third, is its emotional undercurrent. Whether they are Catholic or not, audiences are watching “Conclave” through a new lens: one tinged with real grief, real anticipation and real history in the making. 

One of the most compelling aspects of “Conclave” is its depiction of ideological rifts within the College of Cardinals embodied in the characters of Cardinal Benitez and Cardinal Tremblay. Though fictional, these figures serve as stand-ins for the very real divide currently shaping the future of the Church. 

Cardinal Benitez, a progressive reformist pushing for radical inclusivity and modernization, mirrors the more liberal bloc of today’s Church: those who advocate for a more open stance on LGBTQ+ issues, women’s roles in the Church and interfaith dialogue. 

Cardinal Tremblay, on the other hand, is a staunch traditionalist, representing those who wish to preserve orthodoxy, maintain the traditional Latin Mass and resist secular influence. He echoes the sentiments of conservative factions that view Pope Francis’ reforms with skepticism. 

In today’s real-life lead-up to the conclave, similar ideological camps are beginning to coalesce around potential candidates. The film cleverly distills this power struggle into its narrative, which gives viewers a clear sense of the stakes. As these polarized visions of the Church clash, “Conclave” shows just how high the tensions can run, and how deeply personal the battle for the Church’s soul really is. 

That said, the film is not without criticism — particularly from religious reviewers. Catholic Review labeled the movie “ideologically charged” and flagged some theological inaccuracies, including a twist involving a secret cardinal that would violate canon law. Still, even its detractors admit the film captures the mood of solemnity and the pressure of spiritual decision-making in a visually stunning way. 

While “Conclave” is not a documentary, its renewed relevance makes it essential to view in 2025. It is not just entertainment. It is a cultural artifact that offers insight, however dramatized, into one of the most secretive and significant rituals in the modern world. 

As the world watches the real conclave unfold, “Conclave” serves as a companion piece, reminding us of the weight, wonder and human complexity behind the white smoke that signals a new chapter for the Catholic Church.