As Pope Francis Battles Pneumonia, ‘Conclave’ Gains Oscar Momentum/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ As Pope Francis recovers from pneumonia in a Rome hospital, the film Conclave—which dramatizes the secretive process of electing a new pope—has gained unexpected relevance. The movie, directed by Edward Berger and starring Ralph Fiennes, is nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Picture. While the Vatican traditionally avoids discussions about conclaves while a pope is ill, Conclave has thrust the subject into the spotlight, especially as Francis’ health struggles continue. The film has been widely praised by Catholic media, though some within the Church argue it sensationalizes the papal election process.
A Vatican Drama Unfolds: Quick Look
- Pope Francis remains hospitalized with pneumonia, raising concerns about Vatican leadership.
- Conclave, a film about a fictional papal election, has gained major Oscar buzz.
- Catholic media outlets have praised the film, calling it a respectful depiction of the election process.
- Robert Harris, author of the novel Conclave, has declined to comment on the pope’s health out of respect.
- Cardinal Sean O’Malley criticized the film, saying it misrepresents the spiritual nature of a conclave.
- The film has become uncomfortably relevant, with its release coinciding with global media focus on the Vatican.
As Pope Francis Battles Pneumonia, ‘Conclave’ Gains Oscar Momentum
Life Imitates Art as ‘Conclave’ Gains Attention Amid Pope’s Health Crisis
A Taboo Subject Gains Public Fascination
In the Vatican, discussing a conclave while a pope is alive and ill is frowned upon. Yet, Conclave, a film about the intense political and spiritual battle behind a papal election, has unexpectedly gained widespread attention as Pope Francis remains hospitalized.
The movie, based on Robert Harris’ novel, follows Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (played by Ralph Fiennes) as he navigates the complex and often secretive election of a new pope. The film has been widely acclaimed for its accuracy, with even Vatican-affiliated media praising its depiction of Church politics and traditions.
However, the real-world parallel between the film’s plot and the pope’s health crisis has created a surreal and delicate situation. While Conclave was intended as a gripping drama, it now feels eerily prescient, as speculation about the future of the papacy quietly simmers.
Robert Harris Stays Silent on the Pope’s Condition
“I’ve been refusing all requests to talk about a future conclave because I think that’s in extreme bad taste,” Harris told the Associated Press. “I really hope he’s got some more years yet.”
Meanwhile, Pope Francis’ condition remains serious, though he was reportedly drinking coffee Saturday morning—a sign of improvement. Vatican doctors have emphasized that the next 24 to 48 hours will be critical in assessing his recovery.
Catholic Media Praises the Film, But Not Everyone is Impressed
Despite its dramatic storytelling, Conclave has been embraced by Catholic media outlets, including L’Osservatore Romano (the Vatican newspaper) and Avvenire, the daily publication of the Italian bishops conference.
- Avvenire praised the film for its “sumptuous beauty, gripping plot, and intelligent commentary on Church leadership.”
- L’Osservatore Romano commended its “respectful portrayal of a sacred process.”
However, not all Catholic figures agree. Cardinal Sean O’Malley, a close advisor to Pope Francis, criticized the movie for misrepresenting the conclave’s spiritual nature.
“My experience of being in a conclave was nothing like the political backroom plotting depicted in the film,” O’Malley wrote in a blog post.
He emphasized that cardinals take their responsibility deeply seriously, swearing an oath before Michelangelo’s Last Judgment fresco in the Sistine Chapel. “For all its artistic and entertainment value, the movie does not capture the true spiritual weight of a conclave.”
A Film That Hits Too Close to Home
The parallels between Conclave and the real-life uncertainty surrounding Pope Francis have left many Catholics uneasy. The film begins with the sudden death of a sitting pope, throwing the Church into a dramatic election process. While Francis remains alive, his hospitalization has led to widespread speculation about the Church’s future leadership.
The Vatican, known for its careful control of messaging, has remained silent on whether Conclave is appropriate viewing at this moment. But as Sunday’s Academy Awards approach, the film is poised to take center stage, just as all eyes remain on Rome.
What’s Next?
- Pope Francis’ health remains under close observation, with Vatican doctors monitoring his recovery.
- The Academy Awards take place Sunday, where Conclave is up for eight Oscars, including Best Picture.
- If Pope Francis worsens, discussions about a potential conclave could become more serious.
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