At first glance, "Conclave," a Vatican-centered film starring Ralph Fiennes, appears to fit the mold of a serious, Oscar-worthy drama reminiscent of early 2000s cinema. Adapted from Robert Harris's novel, the film delves into the intricate and secretive processes that accompany the election of a new pope within the Roman Catholic Church. With a predominantly male and mostly white cast, sans the electrifying performance of Isabella Rossellini, "Conclave" may seem like a film that would appeal to traditionalists, devoid of the youthful allure of today's rising stars like Timothée Chalamet or Paul Mescal. Instead, it showcases a roster of seasoned middle-aged actors.

Yet, the film has surprisingly taken the internet by storm, morphing into one of the most memed movies of the year. Since its release, “Conclave” has infiltrated social media feeds across platforms, creating a unique fervor that no one anticipated.

On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fans have ingeniously intertwined "Conclave" with popular reality shows such as "RuPaul’s Drag Race" and "Real Housewives." Creative enthusiasts have shared fan-cams featuring the film’s cardinals, including one set to Charli XCX’s catchy track “Sympathy Is a Knife,” paired with a witty commentary on the film's dramatic interactions. One user exclaimed, “so much drama in this #conclave and I loved every minute of it,” perfectly capturing the combination of high stakes and entertainment found within the movie.

As the 2024 presidential election looms closer, references to "Conclave" have even crossed the threshold into political satire. In one humorous social media post, a U.S. paper ballot humorously featured Stanley Tucci's character, Aldo Bellini, written in among the actual candidates, directly linking the film's theme of choosing a leader to a real-world context.

Why has this seemingly traditional film resonated so strongly with an online audience? The chaotic dynamics among the film's clergymen bear an uncanny resemblance to the drama and backstabbing seen in reality television and daytime soap operas—elements that continue to dominate contemporary online discussions. The film’s characters wear their secrets like extravagant vestments, cultivating an atmosphere ripe for online commentary and sharing.

Directed by Edward Berger, “Conclave” begins with the death of the reigning pope, setting the stage for a global gathering of cardinals tasked with the pivotal decision of selecting a new pope. These clergymen are sequestered, their discussions unfolding like a real-life version of a reality competition show. The apparent gravity of their mission soon contrasts with their human flaws and self-interest, illuminating the darker side of ambition and morality within the Catholic Church.

The film’s narrative expertly highlights a clique-like dynamic among the cardinals—reminiscent of the social structures seen in Tina Fey’s iconic “Mean Girls.” The intersection of power and betrayal is deftly portrayed in Vatican dining halls, where personal rivalries simmer just beneath the surface. Iconic characters like Cardinal Tedesco, a vaping Italian cardinal full of bravado and sass, vividly evoke comparisons to beloved reality TV personalities, enhancing the film’s meme potential.

Scenes of secret ballot casting in the exquisitely recreated Sistine Chapel evoke a tension that parallels tribal councils in “Survivor” or rose ceremonies in “The Bachelor.” Against the backdrop of Michelangelo's masterpieces, the cardinals' interactions oscillate between silent glances and heated tensions—evidence of their vested interests in the outcome of the papal election.

Though “Conclave” embodies elements of reality TV-style drama, it does not shy away from serious themes regarding human ambition and the complexity of its intersection with faith. The film’s surprising and tender revelations suggest an evolution towards a more compassionate Church, challenging the traditional conservatism often associated with the Vatican.

In a world where we crave unfiltered glimpses into humanity’s imperfections, “Conclave” manages to deliver. The film intertwines moral conflict with stylish storytelling, demonstrating that even those who are supposed to uphold social and spiritual virtues can succumb to betrayal and envy.

Ultimately, the memes surrounding “Conclave” reveal an enduring truth: beneath its seemingly archaic surface lies a modern tale of ambition, betrayal, and stunning visuals. The film serves as a reminder that while some leaders may wear pious robes, they, too, can be embroiled in the very human struggles of allure, ambition, and downright entertaining chaos. It may be bold and even bordering on blasphemous, but with such a compelling narrative, who can resist the allure?