The Vatican City in Italy is abuzz with speculation as the impending conclave to elect a new pope approaches following the recent passing of Pope Francis. The ranks of armchair Vatican experts have swelled, largely influenced by Hollywood’s 2024 political thriller “Conclave.” The film, while fictional, sheds light on the ancient selection process with its grand ceremony and intricate rules, adding a dramatic twist filled with palace intrigue and surprises. Despite some inaccuracies, the movie manages to capture the seriousness of a papal election and accurately reflects many rituals and contemporary challenges faced by the Catholic Church today.
One aspect where “Conclave” excels is in its detailed re-creation of the ambiance and aesthetics of a traditional conclave. The movie’s attempts to accurately portray the Vatican setting and the preconclave discussions among cardinals have been commendable, as noted by experts. However, subtle discrepancies, like the color of the cardinals’ garments, have been pointed out by others, showcasing the challenges of accurately representing such an elaborate process on screen.
Massimo Faggioli, a historical theology professor, highlights the movie’s alignment with the expectation of a swift conclave in real life. A prolonged conclave could signify division within the Church, emphasizing the importance of a concise selection process. While the film accurately depicts the voting process, discrepancies in the burning of ballots after each vote – instead of after each session – have been noted by Rev. Thomas Reese, a Vatican expert. These details, though minor, play a significant role in reflecting the authenticity of the conclave tradition.
As the plot unfolds in “Conclave,” there are notable errors that, if corrected, would significantly alter the movie’s narrative. The introduction of a cardinal “in pectore” from Kabul raises eyebrows among experts, as the secrecy of such an appointment would invalidate the cardinal’s presence in the conclave. Additionally, the film’s portrayal of cardinal paying for votes and breaking the seal of the confessional are deemed outlandish and inaccurate by experts, showcasing exaggerated politicking and political divisions that do not align with modern conclave practices.
Kurt Martens, a professor of canon law, emphasizes the portrayal of cardinals as either liberal or conservative champions in the film as unrealistic. The caution exercised by cardinals in expressing their opinions and the requirement for a two-thirds majority for the next pope’s selection ensure a balanced and thoughtful decision-making process, regardless of individual biases. These insights shed light on the complexities of a conclave that go beyond the Hollywood dramatization presented in “Conclave.”
In summary, while “Conclave” serves as an entertaining glimpse into the world of papal elections, it is essential to view it with a critical eye and an understanding of the realities and nuances of the conclave process. The movie’s blend of fiction and reality offers a unique perspective on an ancient tradition, sparking conversations and debates among Vatican experts and audiences alike.