The Uncanny Timing of 'Conclave' and the Search for a New Pope

In an unexpected turn of events, the Oscar-nominated film 'Conclave' has gained a new layer of relevance with the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, ushering in a real-life papal conclave. This echoes the film's themes of political maneuvering and intrigue, and while it was briefly unavailable for streaming in the aftermath, you can now catch it on Prime Video.

Who Are the Real Papal Candidates?

For those less familiar with the inside workings of the Vatican, the time has come to compare the fictional characters from 'Conclave' with the actual papal contenders. Many of these clerics may be lesser-known, but surprising similarities exist between them and their cinematic counterparts.

Cardinal Lawrence: A Match with Pietro Parolin

In 'Conclave', we meet Cardinal Lawrence, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, who leads the proceedings. In reality, with the elderly Giovanni Battista Re unable to participate, the role falls to Pietro Parolin, the Vatican's Secretary of State. Both share a close relationship with the late pope, though Parolin is viewed as more diplomatic. What sets them apart, however, is that while Lawrence was an underdog, Parolin is tipped as a frontrunner in this conclave.

Cardinal Tedesco: Echoes of Péter Erdő

The film's conservative character, Cardinal Tedesco, finds a counterpart in Péter Erdő, the archbishop of Hungary. While Erdő has taken controversial stances, he is seen as somewhat more amenable than Tedesco. The church's progressive traits may find representation in those opposing Erdő.

Cardinal Benitez: Luis Antonio Tagle's Progressiveness

Channeling the spirit of Cardinal Benitez from the film, Luis Antonio Tagle steps up as a potential liberal candidate from the Philippines. Renowned for his advocacy for marginalized communities, Tagle mirrors Benitez’s representation of the Global South and is often viewed as a favorite among liberal circles.

Cardinal Bellini: Matteo Zuppi's Charisma

Matteo Zuppi, a progressive Italian cardinal, reflects the character of Bellini with his open stance on issues like LGBTQ+ rights and immigration. Recently, Zuppi's humanitarian efforts as a wartime envoy align closely with the values depicted in the film.

Cardinal Adeyemi: The African Aspirations of Peter Turkson

Among the hopefuls to become the first African pope in over a thousand years, Peter Turkson from Ghana is a leading figure. While holding conservative viewpoints, his progressive stances on various social issues distinguish him from his fictional counterpart, Adeyemi.

Cardinal Tremblay: Géral Lacroix as a Canadian Contender

Finally, we find a Canadian parallel in Géral Lacroix, whose administration skills resemble those of Cardinal Tremblay from the film. Despite his past controversies, Lacroix enters the conclave with a reputation for capability.

As the world awaits the decision of the conclave, the parallels between the characters of 'Conclave' and the real-life candidates provide a fascinating lens through which to view this historic event.