The process to elect a new pope was shrouded in secrecy until recently, when it was presented in the Oscar-winning film Conclave.
Across the globe, there is now speculation circulating about who will replace Pope Francis, who has died aged 88.
The Vatican leader was known for his charm and progressive values, and interest in his replacement arrives at a sensitive time for the Church as geopolitical issues and the climate crisis are as prevalent as ever.
The events of Conclave, which stars Ralph Fiennes, is set to take place in real life, with a replacement usually selected about a fortnight after the Pope’s death.
Conclave follows the sequestering of cardinals, ministers and other religious figures at the Vatican as they elect their new leader after the death of a fictional pope.
The film unpacks the political machinations that occur behind the scenes as the religious leaders battle their faith, conscience, and their duty to the Church and the legacy of their most recent leader. It documents the process as the electors proceed to the Sistine Chapel for the official conclave and take an oath of absolute secrecy before sealing the doors.
Only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote in the conclave. The number of cardinal electors – those who partake in the secret vote – is limited to 120.
Starring alongside Fiennes in the film are Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow and Isabella Rossellini. Based on the book by Robert Harris, the film gained acclaim and received eight Oscar nominations – and Peter Straughan won the trophy for Best Adapted Screenplay.
Conclave is now available to watch online on Amazon Prime Video free with subscription, Apple TV (£4.99 to rent, £9.99 to buy) and Sky Store (£4.99 to rent, £9.99 to buy).
