How accurate is Conclave? What the film gets right and wrong about papal elections

Conclave shows the Vatican's secretive papal election after Pope Francis’ death with both accuracy and dramatization.

Pope Francis' recent death at age 88 has shifted global focus to the Vatican, where preparations are underway for the sacred and secretive ritual of selecting the next pope.

The 2024 film Conclave, starring Ralph Fiennes, has reignited public interest in how closely Hollywood portrays this centuries-old process.

The film, based on Robert Harris’s bestselling novel, closely follows many real-life aspects of the papal election. Cardinals under age 80 are sequestered in the Vatican, staying at Domus Sanctae Marthae, and vote inside the Sistine Chapel. The use of ballots, white and black smoke signals, and the ceremonial destruction of the deceased pope’s ring are faithfully portrayed. The film also captures the political intrigue within the Church, which experts say mirrors real dynamics.

However, Conclave does take creative liberties. Voting in real conclaves is more solemn than shown, and the film’s depiction of a “Cardinal in pectore” participating in the vote is inaccurate. Such cardinals, if their status isn't publicly revealed before the pope’s death, are not eligible to vote. Additionally, while the movie gives the illusion of being shot inside the Vatican, all scenes were filmed elsewhere with CGI recreations.

Despite minor inaccuracies, Conclave gets the core of the process right, offering viewers a rare glimpse into the Church’s most mysterious tradition. The film is currently streaming on Peacock and available for purchase on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV+.