The movie Conclave is generally regarded as a fairly accurate depiction of the papal election process, particularly in its portrayal of the logistics, rituals, and voting procedures that take place during a real conclave. It accurately shows the setting in the Sistine Chapel, the secrecy of the conclave, the voting method where cardinals write names on ballots and burn them to produce black or white smoke signals, and the Latin exchange when a new pope accepts the election
. However, the film takes creative liberties with character actions and some details:
- The character Cardinal Lawrence conflates two real roles: the camerlengo (who manages the Vatican after the pope’s death) and the dean of the College of Cardinals (who oversees the election). In reality, these are separate offices held by different individuals
- Certain dramatic plot points, such as the participation of a "cardinal in pectore" (a secretly appointed cardinal), are fictional and do not align with actual conclave rules, as such cardinals cannot vote
- Some procedural inaccuracies include minor costume errors (e.g., incorrect Roman collars), the absence of an altar in a Mass scene, and a simplified depiction of the destruction of the pope’s ring
- The film also shows Cardinal Lawrence engaging in actions that would be impermissible in real life, such as investigating the deceased pope’s quarters and sharing confidential information
Overall, experts and religious scholars note that while Conclave is well- researched and captures the essence and atmosphere of a papal election, it blends fact with fiction for dramatic effect. It “does a fair job” illustrating conclave protocols but should not be taken as a fully accurate documentary account
