VATICAN CITY — Discussing a conclave in the Vatican has traditionally been considered inappropriate, particularly when the reigning pope is unwell. Such discussions are seen as distasteful while a pope is facing health challenges. This holds true as Pope Francis is currently battling double pneumonia at Gemelli Hospital in Rome.
However, “Conclave,” a film gaining unexpected popularity and acclaim, has brought attention to the intricate rules, solemn ceremonies, and dramatic significance of electing a new pope — a process deeply ingrained in Catholic tradition — amid ongoing concerns for Pope Francis’ condition. This movie has pushed the Catholic hierarchy into an awkward position as they pray for the pope’s recovery.
The film treats the papal election with a sense of reverence while accurately reflecting the age-old rituals and modern challenges facing the Catholic Church. Both L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican’s newspaper, and Avvenire, the publication of the Italian bishops conference, have lauded “Conclave” with positive reviews. These reviews appeared before the pope was hospitalized, leaving it uncertain if they would have been published following his health decline. The film’s setting in Santa Marta, where Pope Francis resides, only underscores this connection with reality.
With media attention focusing on Pope Francis’ health, the simultaneous popularity of “Conclave” has sparked an increased public interest in what might transpire during a real conclave. Directed by Edward Berger and adapted from Robert Harris’s novel, the film stars Ralph Fiennes as the dean of the College of Cardinals and has been nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Robert Harris acknowledges the sensitivity of promoting the film during such trying times and has refrained from discussing the potential future conclave out of respect for the current situation.
Pope Francis faced a setback when he required mechanical ventilation after aspirating vomit. Doctors remain cautious as they continue to assess his condition. This heightened tension mirrors elements of “Conclave” in an uncomfortable ways for those following the pope’s health and the Catholic Church’s possible future.
The story of “Conclave” revolves around the death of a pope and the ensuing political machinations surrounding the election of a successor. Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, portrayed by Fiennes, is the dean tasked with overseeing the process amid his crisis of faith, facing secrets, scandals, and maintaining election integrity. Massimo Faggioli, a theologian, sees the film’s narrative as a timely reflection of the Catholic Church’s internal turmoil, emphasizing the vulnerabilities to scandals from within rather than outside threats.
While the film takes some creative liberties, such as Cardinal Lawrence’s actions, which would conflict with canonical laws, it remains a Hollywood rendition admired for its artistic and storytelling prowess. Avvenire praised the film for its captivating beauty, intricate plot twists, and commentary on the Church’s current state. Writing earlier in February, Alessandra Comazzi from L’Osservatore Romano, noted the respectful depiction of the conclave’s suspenseful nature. Despite Vatican hesitations regarding conclave discussions, the rave reviews indicate its well-reception.
However, Cardinal Sean O’Malley, having participated in the conclave electing Pope Francis in 2013, offers a cautious perspective, asserting his experience did not align with the film’s portrayal of conclave politics. He emphasized that the cardinals remain deeply aware of the spiritual gravity of their responsibility and are guided by prayer, a contrast to the movie’s rendition.
