Cardinals study conclave ahead of papal vote

Edward Berger's gripping papal thriller Conclave captivated audiences last year, unveiling a rarely seen aspect of Catholicism: the ceremonial election of a new pope. With cardinals worldwide preparing for an actual conclave, the film's influence has become undeniable – several participating religious leaders have reportedly used it as a reference.

A papal cleric involved in the conclave told Politico that Berger's film, featuring Ralph Fiennes as the dean of the College of Cardinals, is viewed as "remarkably accurate even by Cardinals." The source added that some cardinals had watched it in theaters.

Pope Francis passed away in late April, less than six months after the film's release. His death initiated the conclave process, gathering 133 high-ranking clerics in the Sistine Chapel to select Catholicism's next global leader.

Most participants arriving in Rome on May 7 were appointed by Pope Francis himself and thus have no prior conclave experience. For these cardinals, particularly those from remote parishes, the film provides crucial insights into the elaborate ritual.