Cardinals Watch Conclave for Research Before Real Event

Edward Berger's gripping papal thriller, *Conclave*, captivated audiences last year, offering a rare glimpse into the secretive and ritualistic process of electing a new Pope. As Cardinals from across the globe prepare to convene for a real-life conclave, the film's influence is evident. Remarkably, some of these religious leaders have turned to *Conclave* for guidance on the upcoming proceedings.

A papal cleric involved in the conclave process shared with Politico that Berger’s film, featuring the esteemed Ralph Fiennes as the dean of the College of Cardinals, is considered "remarkably accurate" by some Cardinals. The cleric noted that "some [Cardinals] have watched it in the cinema," indicating the film's impact on those who will soon participate in this sacred ritual.

The death of Pope Francis in late April, just months after the film's release, set the stage for this conclave. The process will see 133 high-ranking clerics gather in the Sistine Chapel to deliberate and vote for the next leader of the global Catholic Church.

Starting on Wednesday, May 7, most of the Cardinals in Rome were appointed by Pope Francis and are participating in this ritual for the first time. This makes it understandable that they would seek insights from *Conclave*, especially those from smaller, more remote parishes who may not have had the opportunity to gain such knowledge otherwise.