Roman Catholics and non-Roman Catholics alike all over the world have mourned the passing of Pope Francis at the age of 88 since the Vatican announced his death Monday.
But that sadness also gave way to a sense of anticipation and curiosity. The death of one pope means another pope must rise to power. The process of electing a new pontiff falls to the College of Cardinals, who will convene for an election called a “papal conclave.”
Now, “conclave” is not a word found in most people’s daily vocabulary. But this week is the second time in 2025 that it’s been on everyone’s lips.
This very pope succession scenario played out in the 2024 political thriller film “Conclave,” which garnered box office success and eight Academy Award nominations. The movie stars Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow and Isabella Rossellini.
“Conclave” follows Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, the dean of the College of Cardinals (Ralph Fiennes), as he plans and executes a papal conclave, learning many secrets about the top contenders along the way.
‘Conclave’ viewership increased by 283% following the passing of Pope Francis. (via Variety) pic.twitter.com/qO7nnTg1eR
— Pop Base (@PopBase) April 22, 2025
Since the gathering to select a new pope — which will begin 15 to 20 days after Pope Francis’ passing — will be closely watched all around the world, many have chosen to prepare by watching “Conclave.”
Social media users have taken to the internet to strut their new, film-based knowledge of the process.
Guy who watched Conclave excited to use new found expertise pic.twitter.com/Z5172BJK0F
— The Chaser (@chaser) April 21, 2025
On the other hand, many users of the social media site X pointed out there are other viewing options, if you’re prepping for the rounds of black — and finally white — smoke. Those include the 2019 film “The Two Popes,” which is a biopic about Pope Francis and his predecessor, Pope Benedict XVI.
I know Conclave has recency bias on its side, but it is funny that there was an actual movie from six years about about Pope Francis, portrayed by Jonathan Pryce in an Oscar-nominated performance, and I haven't seen a single person recommend or even mention it yet today. pic.twitter.com/gqrQWsoYhp
— Jonathan (@jonathanmb32) April 21, 2025
conclave media diet pregame pic.twitter.com/nAwHavc337
— miccaeli ✍️ (@renegadeapostle) April 21, 2025
Fortunately, “Conclave” began streaming on Amazon Prime Video this week, for those who want to get into the dramatic pope election mood before the real thing kicks off in a couple of weeks.
The marketing for this movie is crazy https://t.co/nrgER1wrcL
— Arthouse Shawn Levy (@firagawalkwthme) April 21, 2025
