Edward Berger's thrilling film, *Conclave*, captivated audiences last year by delving into the rarely seen world of papal elections within the Catholic Church. The movie, which features the esteemed actor Ralph Fiennes portraying the dean of the College of Cardinals, has not only entertained but also served as an educational resource for real-life cardinals preparing for the upcoming conclave. This real-world event, sparked by the passing of Pope Francis in late April, is set to commence on May 7 in Rome, where 133 high-ranking clerics will gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next pontiff.
According to a papal cleric involved in the conclave process, who spoke with Politico, *Conclave* has been praised for its accuracy. The cleric noted that "some [Cardinals] have watched it in the cinema," highlighting the film's role as a preparatory tool. Given that the majority of the cardinals participating were appointed by Pope Francis and are experiencing their first conclave, the film offers valuable insights, particularly for those from less central or smaller parishes around the world. This unexpected influence of cinema on religious proceedings showcases the power of film in providing both entertainment and education.
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