From The Silver Screen to the Vatican: "Konklave" as a Guiding Light for Cardinals
Movie serving as catalyst for genuine conclave proceedings - Movie serving as a medium for actual deliberation and decision-making among individuals
In a unique fusion of reality and fiction, some cardinals participating in the election of the successor to Pope Francis have found solace in the Oscar-winning movie, "Konklave." This tale of power, politics, and intrigue directed by Edward Berger is said to have served as an informative and engaging preparation for the historic conclave.
Cinematic Mentorship for Conclave Newbies
As reported by the political magazine "Politico," several cardinals are keen on the 2024 thriller, referring to it as a "helpful research tool." According to a cleric, some cardinals have even watched the film, with some finding it remarkably accurate, especially for those with limited understanding of Vatican politics and protocol.
A Mirror to the Vatican's Inner Workings
In the film, acting powerhouse Ralph Fiennes portrays Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, leading the College of Cardinals after the pope's untimely demise. Over three dramatic days within the heart of the Vatican, Fiennes' character uncovers scandals and intrigue surrounding potential candidates.
Art Reflecting Life's Turmoil
Following Pope Francis's (1936-2025) death on April 21 due to a stroke and heart failure, the current papal election commenced. Unlike the swift process seven years ago, the cardinals failed to elect a new pope on the first day, resembling the film's dramatic conclusion.
Tensions Between Fact and Fiction
Stephen Farber, in his review for the U.S. magazine "The Hollywood Reporter," noted that the film challenges the male-dominated Catholic Church hierarchy with a crucial role played by a nun, portrayed by Isabella Rossellini. The film explores contemporary questions surrounding sexual and racial biases, as well as acknowledges the sexual scandals that have plagued the Church in recent years.
- Konklave
- Oscar
- Pope
- Pope Francis
- Ralph Fiennes
- Catholic Church
- Edward Berger
- Rome
- The 2024 Oscar-winning film, "Konklave," directed by Edward Berger, is being utilized by some cardinals as a preparation for the election of the successor to Pope Francis, providing insight into Vatican politics and protocol.
- In the movie, Oscar-winning actor Ralph Fiennes portrays Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, a character who leads the College of Cardinals after the pope's demise, offering a realistic glimpse into the inner workings of the Catholic Church.
- The Oscar-winning film "Konklave" seems eerily similar to real-life events, as the current papal election has seen cardinals failing to elect a new pope on the first day, reminiscent of the movie's dramatic conclusion.
- The film Konklave, an Oscar-winning dramatic thriller, brings contemporary questions to the forefront, challenging the male-dominated Catholic Church hierarchy and acknowledging the sexual scandals that have plagued the Church in recent years.
- The Oscar-winning film "Konklave," portraying the power struggles within the Catholic Church, has found a surprising audience amongst the cardinals participating in the 2024 papal election, serving as a potential guiding light for those new to Vatican politics.
