"Conclave" Movie: Controversy & Controversy: What You Need To Know

Dr. Antwon Grant 20 May 2025

Is "Conclave" merely a film, or is it a reflection of a deeper ideological battle reshaping the landscape of faith? The new film "Conclave," directed by Edward Berger, based on Robert Harris's novel, has sparked a fiery debate, challenging the very foundations of Catholicism and leaving many wondering if the film's progressive perspective truly represents the future, or simply echoes the echo chamber of contemporary cultural anxieties.

The echoes of this debate reverberate far beyond the silver screen. Bishop Robert Barron, a prominent figure in the Catholic Church, has urged Catholics to approach "Conclave" with caution, claiming it "checks every woke box." This warning, coupled with criticisms of a "leftwing TikTok stupid" conclusion, suggests that the film might be more than just entertainment; it could be a cultural canary in the coal mine, signaling shifts within the Church and broader societal trends. Indeed, the films focus on a papal conclave, the process of electing a new Pope, makes it a particularly sensitive subject, as the selection of a new leader represents not only the future of the Church, but also reflects its values and priorities.

The core of the controversy seems to lie in the film's alleged embrace of "woke" themes. Critics argue that "Conclave" sidelines a crucial demographic within the modern Church, presenting a skewed vision of Catholic leadership. This critique raises fundamental questions about the film's perspective. Is it seeking to modernize the Church, or is it distorting its core tenets to fit a predetermined ideological framework? The films creators might counter that they are holding a mirror up to the Church, forcing it to confront uncomfortable truths and engage in a necessary process of self-reflection. However, if the resulting portrait is a caricature, driven by political agendas rather than spiritual insight, the film risks alienating the very audience it aims to reach.

The storyline, which follows Dean of the College of Cardinals Thomas Lawrence (played by Joseph Fiennes) as he organizes the conclave following the death of the Pope, promises intrigue and drama. However, the focus on the internal politics of the Vatican, with its secrets, and uncomfortable questions, has stirred a lot of debates. The carefully designed sets and stellar cast, including Ralph Fiennes, add depth to the narrative, the film's core issue is its perspective. Gad Saad, in his review, expressed disappointment with the ending, viewing it as compromised by the prevailing "woke" themes.

The films central theme revolves around the election of a new Pope, a figure representing the heart and soul of Catholicism for over a billion followers worldwide. Thus, the film has the potential to make a profound statement about the future of the church. It is the responsibility of every creative team to make a great movie and also take care of sentiments and values. If the filmmakers prioritized social commentary over historical accuracy or theological sensitivity, they would not be doing justice to their work. Even Hollywood, which has lavished honors on the film, would have some reservations about actually producing such a plot.

The film's setting within a papal conclavethe secretive process by which the Catholic Church elects its leaderfurther amplifies the stakes. The conclave, shrouded in tradition and mystery, is a potent symbol of authority, faith, and the Church's enduring legacy. The film's treatment of this sacred process, therefore, has the potential to either elevate or undermine the Church's credibility in the eyes of its followers and the wider world. The movies conclusion, whatever it may be, will inevitably be scrutinized, debated, and interpreted as a reflection of the film's underlying philosophy, its political stance, and its ultimate message.

The narratives exploration of the internal dynamics of the Vatican raises important questions about power, tradition, and the Church's role in the modern world. However, the films critics believe it may be misguided by its perspective, a perspective which speaks with the voice of everything wrong with modern christianity. It could also become a reflection of wishful thinking, catering to groups who cant see beyond their own desires. The concern is that "Conclave" will perpetuate stereotypes and fuel existing biases. The success of the film would depend on the creative teams ability to find the balance between the need for creative expression and respect for the deep-rooted values and customs of the catholic faith.

The film is directed by Edward Berger, known for his work on "All Quiet on the Western Front." Based on Robert Harris's novel. Harris is a frequent collaborator of Roman Polanski, a convicted criminal. After the death of the Pope, Dean of the College of Cardinals Thomas Lawrence (Joseph Fiennes) is tasked with organizing the conclave to find a new Holy Father. For those unfamiliar with Harris's "Conclave," the ending of the movie may come as a shock, as the film has "woke" premise of the plot.

The film's very existence and the controversy it has ignited make it a cultural phenomenon, a talking point. As such, "Conclave" has been labelled a product of the woke era. The movie is drawing people's attention. The characters have been caricatured, a mix of the good and the bad, the faithful and the disillusioned, all caught up in the drama of the conclave. The film's success, in both financial and critical terms, will reveal a great deal about the cultural climate, the state of religious faith, and the changing relationship between art and ideology.

This is not a review of the film, but an attempt to unpack the information and issues surrounding it. Let the reader beware, you have been duly notified. The film is playing in cinemas, but this is not a personal review of "Conclave."