Cardinals are currently observing the Conclave for guidance on selecting the new pope.

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      Anyone who doubts that life reflects art should speak with the Catholic cardinals involved in the conclave to select the next pope.

      Following the passing of Pope Francis last month, the Catholic Church is set to elect a new pope. Consequently, 133 cardinals have gathered in Vatican City to participate in the papal conclave beginning May 7. This will be the fourth conclave held since 1978.

      Given the rarity of such conclaves, the cardinals might benefit from some direction regarding what to anticipate. Most of the cardinals attending, appointed by the late Pope Francis, were not part of the 2013 election. Fortunately, they have turned to Hollywood for insight.

      According to Politico, some cardinals have watched "Conclave," a 2024 slow-burn thriller centered around a fictional papal election, for guidance. “Some have viewed it in theaters,” a religious figure disclosed in the report.

      "Conclave" is inspired by Robert Harris’ 2015 novel of the same name. While the narrative is fictional, several elements related to the papal election—such as the isolation of the cardinals and the burning of the ballots—are portrayed accurately.

      After the current pontiff's passing, the College of Cardinals assembles in Vatican City to select a new pope. The composed Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is responsible for overseeing the conclave. Just before the doors are sealed, Lawrence discovers a possible scandal involving one of the leading candidates for pope. He is also faced with making a prompt decision regarding the unplanned arrival of a mysterious cardinal.

      The film features Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Carlos Diehz, Lucian Msamati, Brían F. O’Byrne, Merab Ninidze, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini.

      Directed by Edward Berger and penned by Peter Straughan, "Conclave" has received mostly favorable reviews and has earned over $119 million globally. It was nominated for eight Oscars, including Best Picture, and won for Best Adapted Screenplay.

      "Conclave" is currently available for streaming on Prime Video.

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