The film 'CONCLAVE' instantly became the focus after Pope Francis passed away, here is the synopsis and a series of facts.

Kapanlagi.com - Pope Francis, the leader of the Roman Catholic Church, passed away at the age of 88 on Monday (21/4) morning at his residence, Casa Santa Marta, Vatican. The sad news was announced by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Vatican Camerlengo, in a video speech.

The departure of Pope Francis not only caused public mourning but also highlighted the film CONCLAVE. The film tells the story of the election of a new leader in the Roman Catholic Church, which turns out to be not simple.

CONCLAVE itself also managed to win the highest award at the BAFTA 2025 and grossed over 70 million dollars. Here is the synopsis and a series of facts about the film CONCLAVE!

1. Synopsis of the film CONCLAVE

The death of the Pope from a heart attack leaves behind mystery and tension. Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, played by Ralph Fiennes, takes over the position as Dean of the College of Cardinals. He must lead the election process that involves not only spiritual beliefs but also political power. In a highly secretive atmosphere, Cardinals from various countries—United States, Italy, Nigeria, and Canada—are divided into several groups with their own candidates.

Each group has its own strategies and schemes to secure the 75 majority votes needed to win the election. This intrigue and political rivalry create a tense atmosphere, where every decision could be fatal for their careers.

The conclave is not just an election of the Pope; it is an arena where power and ambition clash. Each Cardinal has a hidden agenda, and the film cleverly depicts how secret scandals can be revealed. From political influence to personal relationships, all these aspects are interconnected and affect the final outcome.

Amidst the tension, the Cardinals must confront not only each other but also their pasts. Each character has secrets that could destroy their reputations if revealed. This adds a layer of tension that keeps the audience guessing who will emerge as the winner.

2. The Real Process

CONCLAVE © instagram.com/conclavethefilm

According to abcnews.go.com, the gathering of cardinals for the conclave usually begins between 15 to 20 days after the death of the pope. The conclave includes all cardinals under the age of 80 who are eligible to participate.

Upon arriving in Rome, the cardinals stay in private rooms at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, which is a residential hotel in the Vatican with dining facilities that typically accommodate visiting clergy and laypeople. In accordance with tradition, the cardinals are cut off from the outside world, including television, phones, computers, and newspapers.

The College of Cardinals will vote up to four times in one day for the next pope, with a two-thirds majority required to elect a pope. After each vote, the ballots are burned, and smoke is released from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel as a signal to the crowd waiting in St. Peter's Square.

Black smoke—fumata nera in Italian—indicates an inconclusive vote, while white smoke—fumata bianca—will signify that a new pope has been elected. If three days pass without a pope being elected, the voting may be suspended for one day to allow the cardinals time for reflection before the next round of voting takes place.

After the College of Cardinals elects a new pope, the candidate is officially asked in the Sistine Chapel whether he accepts the election and, if so, to choose his papal name. Although popes have the option to retain their baptismal name, every pope in the last 470 years has chosen to change his name, usually to honor a predecessor and to signify his intention to emulate that predecessor's example.

3. Inspired by Pope Francis

CONCLAVE © instagram.com/conclavethefilm

In abcnews.go.com, Robert Harris admitted to The New York Times that he indeed envisioned Pope Francis while writing the book that was later adapted into the film CONCLAVE.

4. Spiritual and Political Drama

CONCLAVE © instagram.com/conclavethefilm

This film not only presents political drama but also explores the spiritual aspects of the papal election. What does spiritual leadership truly mean? How do the Cardinals balance their beliefs with personal ambitions? CONCLAVE answers these questions in a captivating way.

5. A Provocative Novel Adaptation

CONCLAVE © instagram.com/conclavethefilm

This film is adapted from a novel by Robert Harris, known for his ability to create strong and profound narratives. This adaptation successfully captures the essence of the novel, presenting a story that is not only thought-provoking but also emotional.

6. A Lineup of Star Actors

CONCLAVE © instagram.com/conclavethefilm

Directed by Edward Berger, this film features top actors such as Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini.

7. BAFTA Awards and Oscar Nominations

CONCLAVE © instagram.com/conclavethefilm

The four BAFTA awards won by CONCLAVE are a testament to the quality of this film. CONCLAVE won in the categories of Best Film, Best British Film, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Editing, showing that CONCLAVE excels not only in storytelling but also in technical aspects such as editing.

The eight Oscar nominations received by CONCLAVE further strengthen its position as one of the best films of the year. These nominations prove that CONCLAVE has been recognized internationally and has gained appreciation from the global film industry.

(kpl/tdr)