Conclave, a film starring Ralph Feinnes and Stanley Tucci, was released in November last year, with what is now being considered spooky timing. The film, directed by Edward Berger, based on the book by Robert Harris, covered the papacy selection process that goes into motion following the Pope’s death.
Not only was it hot on the heels of the US election, where political infighting and scheming were rife, but it also came as concerns around the health of Pope Francis, who was 87 at the time, were increasing. There had been escalating worries about the Pope’s health since 2023, when he faced numerous medical issues, including recurring bouts of influenza and the return of a bowel condition called diverticulitis. He also underwent surgery in June 2023 to treat an abdominal hernia.
