Papal Drama: Unraveling the Complex Tapestry of “Conclave”

A Journey into The Heart of The Vatican
In an intriguing exploration of the Catholic Church’s inner workings, the film Conclave takes viewers on a fictional yet compelling journey through the intense and often tumultuous process of selecting a new pope. As the drama unfolds, we’re confronted with the powerful notion pronounced by Cardinal Thomas Lawrence at the film’s outset: “certainty is the great enemy of unity.” This line encapsulates the essence of the movie, revealing the challenges faced by various contenders seeking to uphold their beliefs while navigating the murky waters of their shared faith.

The behind-the-scenes drama of papal selection.
Despite being a work of fiction, Conclave draws poignantly from real-world events and discussions within the Catholic community. The film portrays a conclave that happens behind closed doors, painting a vivid picture of what such a significant event might entail. Interestingly, while the film wades through fictional waters, it is rooted firmly in the reality of the Catholic Church’s ongoing struggles with issues such as same-sex relationships, female leadership, and the Latin Mass. Topics that reverberate in contemporary discussions about faith, identity, and inclusion.

A Stellar Cast and Thematic Depth

The film is underscored by stellar performances from Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci. Their portrayals, alongside a talented ensemble cast, provide a glimpse into the personalities that shape the future of the Vatican. Each character embodies diverse theological perspectives, presenting a duality between traditional and liberal ideals within the Church.

Conclave has the emotional resonance of a drama like Succession, albeit set within the confines of the Vatican, with no familial ties connecting the candidates—only ideologies. It’s a refreshing take that manages to humanize these formidable figures. We witness the vulnerability of Lawrence, grieving the loss of a close friend who was pope, which provides a personal touch amidst the high-stakes political maneuvering.

Casting a spotlight on the life and struggles of prominent figures in the Catholic Church.
The tension between candidates simulates the dynamic of a high-stakes election, all the while reflecting the current polarization in politics. With the American election looming at the movie’s release, it’s hard not to draw parallels. However, it’s essential to recognize that the original novel, the foundation of this film, was published in 2016, years before today’s political climate came to be. This retrospective lens poses the film as a harbinger of ongoing debates within the Catholic sphere.

A Forward-Looking Narrative

As we dissect the narrative, it becomes clear that the struggles depicted in Conclave reflect an earnest desire to find a way forward for the Church. The recent shift towards a more progressive outlook under Pope Francis is echoed in the film, with the liberal candidates fighting to sustain reforms while traditionalists resist change. This duality manifests in a thrilling narrative, providing us with the gut-wrenching realization that neither side may have the perfect solution.

In a particularly poignant moment, Lawrence and Cardinal Aldo Bellini acknowledge, during a late-night exchange, that no candidate will ever embody perfection. In these quiet revelations, the film teeter-totters between hope and despair, leaving the audience questioning the nature of true leadership in a fractured community.

Exploring the challenges of leadership and unity within a fractured community.
The film’s climax is nothing short of shocking—a revelation that the next pope, Cardinal Vincent Benitez, was born intersex. This unprecedented twist doesn’t merely seek to provoke; rather, it serves as a crucial thread in the broader narrative woven throughout Conclave. By integrating such a contentious topic, the film underscores the pervasive uncertainty in the lives of those who do not conform to traditional gender norms, a reality that resonates profoundly in today’s society.

The Bigger Picture of Controversy

Unlike many portrayals of Catholicism that aim to provoke or mocking, Conclave approaches its controversies with a sense of gravity and purpose. The struggles Benitez faced and the internal conflicts depicted among the cardinals are reflections of the ongoing battle for acceptance within the Church. Indeed, Europe and the world at large still grapple with these issues, making the film’s timing and thematic exploration strikingly relevant.

The movie ultimately highlights that individuals within the Church, much like those outside it, are navigating their identities and beliefs amid an ever-evolving landscape. Benitez’s story raises pressing questions—How will he be accepted? What ramifications will his identity have for his leadership and the Church’s future? And perhaps most importantly, how will this influence the Church’s engagement with the LGBTQ+ community?

A Step Toward True Unity?

As Conclave draws to a close, we are left with a powerful call for open discourse, humility, and a reexamination of what unity truly means in an institution as vast and complex as the Catholic Church. The uncertainties bearing down on us may well be the first steps towards achieving genuine cohesion, ushering in a new era for a Church long dominated by rigid structures and dogma.

In many ways, Conclave doesn’t provide a resolution but rather encourages us to embrace the ambiguity of faith—a profound and often messy journey toward understanding one another in our shared humanity. As the credits roll, one can’t help but ponder the implications of these narratives and how they might resonate in our own lives, urging us to seek unity amidst the chaos.

To experience this masterful drama and dive deeper into its themes, catch Conclave in theaters now.