Vatican Observes Conclave for Event Research

Last year, Edward Berger's gripping papal thriller "Conclave" captivated audiences, revealing a side of Catholicism rarely seen by the public: the ceremonial election of a new pope. As cardinals from across the globe prepare to take part in a real-life conclave, the influence of cinema appears unmistakable—several of the actual religious leaders set to participate have turned to the film for direction.

A papal cleric involved in the conclave rites told political news outlet Politico that Berger's film, starring the legendary Ralph Fiennes as the dean of the College of Cardinals (the official who oversees a conclave), is considered "notably accurate, even by cardinals." The cleric added that "some cardinals have seen it in theaters."

Pope Francis passed away in late April, just under six months after the film's release. His death initiated the conclave procedure, during which 133 high-ranking church officials from around the world gather in the Sistine Chapel to deliberate and elect the next global leader of the Catholic faith.

Most of those arriving in Rome starting Wednesday, May 7, were appointed by Pope Francis himself and have never before taken part in this sacred ritual. It's hardly surprising, then, that the film offers them valuable insight—knowledge that might otherwise be difficult to obtain, particularly for those serving in smaller, more isolated parishes worldwide.