Vatican Cardinals Watched ‘Conclave ‘Movie For Guidance In Choosing New Pope (Report)

As the Vatican’s conclave to elect a new pope begins, cardinals are said to be turning to Hollywood to familiarize themselves with the process. According to report by Politico published May 6, some clerics are watching the Oscar-winning film “Conclave,” starring Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci, as most of them were appointed by Pope Francis and never experienced a conclave before, nor have much Vatican protocol experience overall. “Some have watched it in the cinema,” a cleric involved told the outlet. The cleric additionally shared that the film is regarded as “remarkably accurate,” likening it a “research tool.” The conclave kicked off May 7 with 133 cardinals participating. After entering the Sistine Chapel, they lined up to take an oath of secrecy. A candidate must secure two-thirds majority of votes to be elected. At the end of each round of balloting, smoke from the chimney will indicate to the public if a pope has been chosen. Black indicates that it is inconclusive, while white signals a new pope has been elected.