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Secrecy, intrigue, and unexpected twists characterize the mystery thriller film "Conclave," which has captivated audiences this season. The film is projected to earn over $30 million before moving from theaters to streaming platforms. Critics are praising its storytelling and craftsmanship, with some suggesting it could be in contention for Academy Awards.
Michael Coy, media production manager at Benedictine College's Catholic Film Club podcast, suggests the film's appeal lies in its portrayal of an unfamiliar process: "The pope is still a world figure — even if Catholicism is not as central a part in people’s lives as it used to be."
Jesuit Father Jake Martin from Loyola Marymount University attributes the acclaim to the film's technical quality: "It tells its story very well, just from a technical point of view."
Released by Focus Features on October 25th in the United States, the film features Ralph Fiennes, Isabella Rossellini, and Stanley Tucci. Sister Hosea Rupprecht praised its storytelling but critiqued other aspects: “From a strictly filmmaking standpoint, (‘Conclave’) excels with compelling storytelling and flawed but relatable characters.”
John Mulderig of OSV News cautioned viewers about its sensationalist tendencies while acknowledging its visual appeal.
The plot explores whether an intersex individual could become pope. According to church law cited in the film, such an event would incur significant penalties. The storyline suggests turmoil within the church if this secret were revealed beyond key characters like Cardinal Lawrence and Cardinal Benitez.
Christopher Bellitto of Kean University confirmed that while procedural details are accurate, certain fictional elements diverge from reality. He noted objections regarding political factions among cardinals depicted in the movie.
Coy emphasized concerns over sacramental validity if clergy were intersex: "The gravity of the pope being impossibly invalid would absolutely dawn on a cardinal."
Despite various reactions to "Conclave," Father Martin reminds audiences that it remains fictional: “At the end of the day,” he said, “it is a work of fiction.”
Kimberley Heatherington reports for OSV News from Virginia.
