Before the Conclave: 5 Films & Series to Discover
- Before the declaration "We have a pope," cardinals must convene a conclave to elect the next pontiff.
- Isolated from the outside world, the cardinals communicate their progress through smoke signals: black smoke indicates a failed vote, while white smoke announces the election of a new...
- This assembly of cardinals has captured the creativity of filmmakers, who have set their stories within the conclave's walls.
Lights, Camera, Conclave: Films Explore Papal Elections
Table of Contents
Before the declaration “We have a pope,” cardinals must convene a conclave to elect the next pontiff. This tradition, dating back to the 13th century, takes place in secrecy to prevent corruption.
Isolated from the outside world, the cardinals communicate their progress through smoke signals: black smoke indicates a failed vote, while white smoke announces the election of a new Holy Father. The duration of the conclave can vary from days to months. In 2013, it took only two days for the cardinals to elect Pope Francis.
This assembly of cardinals has captured the creativity of filmmakers, who have set their stories within the conclave’s walls. Here are five films and series that delve into this mysterious process:
“Conclave” (2024)
Edward Berger’s “Conclave,” released in late 2024, explores the political machinations surrounding a papal election. Following the unexpected death of the pope, Cardinal Lawrence, played by Ralph Fiennes, leads the assembly. The film depicts the cardinals’ maneuvering to secure the papacy, amidst a climate of tension and hidden secrets.
Watch the trailer for “Conclave” on YouTube
“Angels and Demons” (2009)
Ron Howard’s “Angels and Demons” uses the death of a pope and the subsequent conclave as the starting point for a thriller.Harvard professor Robert Langdon, accompanied by Vittoria Vetra, investigates a plot by the Illuminati against the Catholic Church. adapted from Dan Brown’s novel, the film features chases through Rome and suspenseful twists.
Watch the trailer for “angels and Demons” on YouTube
“We Have a Pope” (2011)
In Nanni Moretti’s “We Have a Pope,” the newly elected Pope Melville struggles with the weight of his position. The Vatican brings in a psychoanalyst to treat the pontiff’s anxieties.The therapist begins sessions with the Holy Father,observed by the assembled cardinals. This original film offers a comedic and moving look at the papacy.
Watch the trailer for “We Have a Pope” on YouTube
“The Two Popes” (2019)
Fernando Meirelles’ “The Two Popes” explores the friendship between Pope Benedict XVI and Pope Francis. Based on a true story, the film portrays the final days of Benedict before his resignation. The film focuses on an intimate conclave between the two men, as they question their relationship with the Catholic Church and their roles with the faithful. Jonathan Pryce and Anthony hopkins deliver strong performances.
Watch the trailer for “The Two Popes” on YouTube
“The Young Pope” (2016) and “The New pope” (2020)
In Paolo Sorrentino’s “The Young Pope,” Jude Law plays the controversial Pope pius XIII. The series depicts the power struggles among cardinals seeking to elect a controllable figurehead. Accompanied by his private secretary Sister Mary,the new pope challenges the papacy’s traditions to consolidate his power.
The second season, “The New Pope,” features John Malkovich as Pope John Paul III. This new pontiff, British by nationality, is both elusive and discreet. These two series present complex and controversial characters who bring a sense of revolt to the papacy.
Lights, Camera, Conclave: films Exploring Papal Elections – A Q&A
the process of electing a new Pope is a captivating blend of tradition, secrecy, and political maneuvering.The conclave, where cardinals gather to choose the next leader of the Catholic Church, has long been a subject of intrigue. From past dramas to thrillers, filmmakers have seized on this dramatic setting to craft compelling narratives. Let’s delve into this world through a Q&A.
Q: What exactly is a conclave, and why is it vital?
A: A conclave is the gathering of cardinals to elect a new Pope.It’s a sacred and highly secretive process, dating back to the 13th century, designed to ensure a smooth transition of leadership following the death or resignation of a Pope (as happened with benedict XVI). Cardinals from around the world come together in Rome, isolated from the outside world, to vote until a new pontiff is chosen.
Q: How does the conclave work? What happens during the voting process?
A: Once the Pope has died or resigned, the cardinals convene, typically in the Sistine Chapel. They take an oath of secrecy, pledging to keep all discussions and votes confidential. The voting process involves multiple ballots, conducted in secrecy. After each round of voting, the ballots are burned. If a candidate receives the required two-thirds majority, white smoke rises from the chimney of the Sistine chapel, signaling the election of a new Pope. Otherwise, black smoke is emitted.
Q: What are some of the key elements that make the conclave such a compelling setting for film?
A: The conclave offers a wealth of dramatic elements for filmmakers to explore: the secrecy, the high stakes, the potential for political intrigue, and the weight of history.It’s a contained surroundings, amplifying the tension and allowing for intense character studies. The contrast between the solemnity of the religious ceremony and the potential for human ambition creates a rich backdrop for storytelling. The unkown and the inherent drama of the selection process are captivating themes for moviegoers.
Q: Let’s dive into some specific films! What is “Conclave” (2024) about?
A: edward Berger’s “Conclave,” released in late 2024, promises a dramatic exploration of the papal election process. The film stars Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Lawrence, who leads the assembly after the unexpected death of the Pope.The film is likely to focus on the political machinations, power struggles, and hidden agendas that often surface during these high-stakes events. It seems poised to deliver a suspenseful and thoght-provoking look at the inner workings of the Vatican.
Q: What about “angels and Demons” (2009)? How does it portray the conclave?
A: Ron Howard’s “Angels and Demons” uses the death of a Pope and a subsequent conclave as a catalyst for a fast-paced thriller. The film, starring Tom Hanks as Robert Langdon, introduces viewers to the environment of the conclave, but primarily uses it as a backdrop for action and suspense. It presents a fictional plot involving the Illuminati and threats against the Catholic Church, incorporating elements of mystery and intrigue within the Vatican setting.
Q: “We Have a Pope” (2011) – a different perspective?
A: Yes, “We Have a Pope” offers a more insightful portrayal. Nanni Moretti’s film takes a different approach, focusing on the psychological impact of the papacy on the newly elected Pope, Melville. The film delves into the pontiff’s struggle with his new role, exploring themes of faith, doubt, and the pressures of leadership. It’s a comedic and moving look at the human side of the papacy.
Q: What does “The Two Popes” (2019) bring to the table?
A: “The Two Popes” offers a more intimate and personal look at the catholic Church. The film focuses on the relationship between Pope Benedict XVI (Anthony Hopkins) and the future Pope Francis (Jonathan Pryce), exploring their contrasting views and the process leading up to Benedict’s resignation.The movie reveals the emotional intimacy between both men, discussing the direction of the church and their personal spiritual journeys.
Q: And what can be said about “The Young Pope” (2016) and “The New Pope” (2020)?
A: These Paolo Sorrentino series offer a more provocative and stylized interpretation. “The Young Pope,” starring Jude law, presents a fictional and controversial Pope Pius XIII who challenges the customary norms of the papacy. The second season, “The New Pope,” introduces John Malkovich as a new, more enigmatic pontiff. These series explore power struggles, personal crises, and the complexities of faith within a contemporary setting. They are controversial, provocative, and visually stunning.
Watch the trailer for “The Young Pope” on YouTube
Q: Where can I find trailers for these movies?
A: Trailers are available on YouTube and other video platforms. Links to trailer access are included throughout the article, such as those for “Conclave”, “Angels and Demons”, and “We Have a Pope.”
Q: Why are these films about papal elections still relevant today?
A: These films provide insights into the complexities and traditions of the Catholic Church. The themes of ambition, faith, and power are universal, making these stories relatable across different cultures and time periods. The secrecy surrounding the conclave continues to fascinate audiences, and filmmakers tap this intrigue to create compelling dramas.”
Q: Are there any other movies or series that cover this subject?
A: Absolutely, there are many other films that touch upon papal elections and the Vatican. However, these are the ones that have made the biggest mark. These films are a good window into understanding the intricate balance of tradition and modernity within the Catholic Church.
Q: In Conclusion
A: The films discussed offer various perspectives on papal elections, exploring faith, power, and the human condition. They help audiences to appreciate the drama in the conclave and learn more about the workings of the Vatican.
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