Conclave: A cinematic exploration of papal succession

Introduction: The Intersection of Faith and Film

The 2024 film Conclave, directed by Edward Berger and based on Robert Harris’s novel, offers a dramatized portrayal of the secretive process of electing a new pope following the death of Pope Francis. Starring Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Lawrence, the Dean of the College of Cardinals, the film delves into the intricate rituals, political maneuverings, and personal dilemmas that accompany the papal conclave. With a supporting cast including Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini, Conclave has garnered critical acclaim for its compelling narrative and meticulous attention to detail.​

The film’s release coincided with a real-life papal transition, sparking discussions about its accuracy and the insights it offers into the Vatican’s inner workings. By blending factual procedures with fictional elements, Conclave invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of faith, leadership, and institutional tradition.​

Authenticity in Rituals and Settings

One of the film’s strengths lies in its faithful depiction of the rituals and settings associated with the papal conclave. The production team conducted extensive research, consulting Vatican experts and visiting key locations to ensure authenticity. Scenes such as the destruction of the papal ring, the sealing of the papal apartments, and the voting process within the Sistine Chapel are portrayed with remarkable accuracy. The use of silver urns for ballot collection and the threading of ballots after counting reflect actual practices observed during conclaves.

To recreate the grandeur of the Vatican, the filmmakers constructed detailed sets at Cinecittà Studios in Rome. The Sistine Chapel and the Casa Santa Marta, where cardinals reside during the conclave, were meticulously replicated, capturing the solemnity and historical significance of these spaces. While some artistic liberties were taken—such as the use of vintage-inspired cardinal robes and modified architectural elements—the overall representation remains grounded in reality.

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Fictional Liberties and Dramatic Enhancements

Despite its commitment to authenticity, Conclave incorporates fictional elements to enhance the narrative’s dramatic impact. A notable example is the character of Cardinal Vincent Benitez, portrayed as a “cardinal in pectore,” a title given to secret appointments by the pope. In the film, Benitez’s participation in the conclave and subsequent election as pope deviate from canonical procedures, as such appointments must be publicly announced to be valid.​

The film also introduces a significant twist by revealing Benitez as intersex, a development that challenges traditional notions of gender and leadership within the Church. While this plot point serves as a metaphor for inclusivity and progress, it has sparked debate among viewers and critics regarding its plausibility and theological implications.​

Critical Reception and Thematic Interpretations

Conclave has received a mix of praise and criticism for its thematic exploration of faith, power, and institutional reform. Critics have lauded the film’s suspenseful storytelling, strong performances, and thought-provoking commentary on the Church’s role in contemporary society. Ralph Fiennes’s portrayal of Cardinal Lawrence, a man grappling with doubt and responsibility, has been particularly well-received.​

However, some commentators have expressed concern over the film’s portrayal of ecclesiastical politics and its perceived alignment with secular ideologies. The depiction of the conclave as a battleground between conservative and progressive factions has been viewed by some as an oversimplification of the Church’s complex dynamics. Additionally, the inclusion of modern elements, such as a cardinal using a vape pen, has been criticized for undermining the solemnity of the proceedings.​

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Conclusion: A Reflective Lens on Tradition and Change

Conclave serves as a cinematic lens through which audiences can examine the intricate balance between tradition and change within the Catholic Church. By intertwining factual rituals with fictional narratives, the film prompts discussions about leadership, inclusivity, and the evolving nature of faith institutions. While it may take creative liberties, Conclave ultimately invites viewers to contemplate the enduring questions surrounding authority, belief, and the human dimensions of spiritual governance.

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