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In an intriguing case of art imitating life, Catholic cardinals participating in the 2025 papal conclave have reportedly turned to the 2024 film Conclave as a valuable guide. Directed by Edward Berger and based on Robert Harris’ novel, the film has served as a “helpful research tool” for many cardinals to better understand the intricate protocols and political maneuvering involved in selecting the next pope.
According to Politico, some cardinals even watched Conclave in theaters, with several describing it as “remarkably accurate,” especially for those less familiar with Vatican procedures. The movie centers on Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (played by Ralph Fiennes), who navigates the complex, secretive world of the College of Cardinals over three intense days following the pope’s death, exposing scandals and rivalries along the way.
This conclave is the first since Pope Francis’ election in 2017. Francis, the first Latin American pope, passed away on April 21 after suffering a stroke. Though voting began this week, no new pope was chosen on the first day.
Conclave garnered significant critical acclaim, earning eight Academy Award nominations in 2025—including Best Picture and acting nods—with screenwriter Peter Straughan winning Best Adapted Screenplay.
While Conclave is not Hollywood’s first foray into papal politics—2019’s The Two Popes also explored similar themes—it stands out for its modern take on Church issues such as power struggles and institutional bias. The film notably features a subplot with Isabella Rossellini as a nun challenging the Vatican’s male-dominated hierarchy, adding a fresh and provocative dimension to the story.