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As papal elections near, Indian OTT to showcase 2024 hit film ‘Conclave’

New Delhi: Anticipation is high in the Vatican to choose the late Pope Francis’ successor. In a moment where art is coming to reflect reality, the 2024 hit film Conclave is becoming a popular choice for viewers around the world. The movie revolves around the process of papal conclave, an old tradition undertaken to pick a new pope. 

The film is now streaming in India on Prime Video. On Wednesday, Prime Video announced the India premiere of the film which will be streaming on the platform from May 7. The resurgence of the film is now becoming a global phenomenon. It is directed by Edward Berger and features Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini, Jacek Koman, Lucian Msamati, and John Lithgow in major roles.

Papal choices

The global resurgence in the film came after the death of previous Pope Francis on April 21. The Papal Conclave, to choose his successor, will start on May 7, with a total of 133 cardinals from different countries gathering at the Sistine Chapel in Vatican for the process.

The film too follows the process of the conclave and was lauded by critics for its realistic and detailed portrayal of the conclave process. Reportedly, viewership of the film surged by 283 per cent after news of the Pope’s death came out.

Conclave follows Cardinal Lawrence, played by Ralph Fiennes, who is heads the conclave to elect a new Pope in the film. The process of choosing a new Pope, the Papal Conclave is one of the oldest and meticulous traditions to elect a religious leader of such high standing. The film was critically lauded upon its release due to the authentic portrayal of the conclave, be it in terms of costumes, language, gestures, production or locations.

It is an engaging drama which involves Ralph Fiennes’s character involved in a myriad of twists, turns and secretive ploys as he looks to look for a new leader for the Church.