Pope Francis passed away on April 21, leaving a lasting impact not only as the highest authority in the Catholic Church but also as a significant figure in contemporary pop culture.
In 2024, the film Conclave, directed by Edward Berger, was released. The movie is an adaptation of the 2016 novel by Robert Harris, which focuses on the process of selecting a new pope within the Vatican. Sadly, as Pope Francis’ health worsened, many speculated that a conclave might take place sooner than expected.
Conclave was nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Editing, Best Original Score, Best Production Design, and Best Costume Design. The film also featured impressive performances, with Ralph Fiennes nominated for Best Actor and Isabella Rossellini for Best Supporting Actress.
The movie is notable for its detailed depiction of ecclesiastical symbols and terminology, which are key to understanding the depth of its story. Below, we’ll dive into some of the mysteries raised by Conclave, so be warned—there are major plot spoilers ahead.
The Symbolism Behind Papal Names in Conclave
Why Does the Dean Choose the Name John?
In a pivotal moment of the film, the Dean considers the name John for his papal choice. This decision is symbolic of Pope John I, the first pope to take this name. Pope John I is remembered for his courageous journey to Constantinople in 525 to negotiate an end to the persecution of Arians. In Conclave, the choice of John represents the Dean’s desire to heal the divisions within the Church.
Why Does Cardinal Benítez Choose the Name Innocent?
Cardinal Vicente Benítez chooses the name Innocent, honoring Pope Innocent I, who was known for his role in unifying the Church across both the East and West. In the film, this choice reflects Cardinal Benítez’s wish to mend the rifts among the cardinals.
There’s also an interesting connection in that Pope Innocent I was the son of the previous pope, which parallels the closeness between Cardinal Benítez and the former pope in the story.
Key Themes and Additional Context of the Film
Laparoscopic Hysterectomy
The film addresses the topic of laparoscopic hysterectomy, highlighting its less invasive nature compared to the traditional abdominal hysterectomy.
The Legend of Pope Joan
Conclave references the legend of Pope Joan, a female figure who is said to have secretly held the papacy.
This reference becomes particularly relevant when the Dean, recognizing the possibility that Cardinal Vicente Benítez could be elected Pope despite his intersexuality, demonstrates an attitude of openness and acceptance. Intersexuality is a condition in which a person is born with sexual characteristics that don’t fit traditional definitions of male or female.
Where to Watch Conclave
If you missed out on the awards season, don’t worry—Conclave is available to watch from the comfort of your home. The film can currently be rented or purchased on several platforms.
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