Pope Leo XIV watched Conclave movie to prepare, brother says

TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:

"Cardinal Robert Prevost Watched 'Conclave' Movie Before Becoming Pope Leo XIV"

Pope Leo XIV watched Conclave movie to prepare, brother says analysis cover image The Guardian 7.2
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Original Article Source: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/may/09/pope-leo-xiv-watched-conclave-movie
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AI Analysis Average Score: 7.2
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TruthLens AI Summary

In a unique intersection of pop culture and ecclesiastical tradition, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, who has recently taken the name Pope Leo XIV, reportedly watched the movie 'Conclave' prior to the pivotal conclave that led to his election as the new pontiff. His older brother, John Prevost, shared this detail with NBC affiliate WMAQ-TV, highlighting a conversation he had with Robert just before the conclave began. John humorously asked his brother if he was prepared for the momentous occasion and if he had viewed the film to understand the behaviors expected during the election process. The film dramatizes the Vatican’s selection of a new pope amidst political intrigue and rivalries, which John suggested was a light-hearted way to ease the gravity of the situation for his younger brother. Cardinal Prevost, who was not widely considered a frontrunner for the papacy, had only been a cardinal for two years and had doubts about his own candidacy, reflecting the general skepticism regarding the election of an American pope.

The conclave, which concluded swiftly after a day and four rounds of voting, resulted in the election of Pope Leo XIV, succeeding Pope Francis, who passed away at 88. As the first American pope in history, Prevost now faces the immense responsibility of leading the Catholic Church, which comprises approximately 1.4 billion followers worldwide. His brother described the family's reaction to this unprecedented event as surreal and a source of immense pride. To balance the demands of his new role, John mentioned that they engage in light activities such as playing Wordle and Words with Friends, suggesting that these small moments provide a necessary respite from the weight of papal duties. The election of Pope Leo XIV signifies a notable shift in the Vatican's leadership, ushering in a new era at a time when the Church faces various global challenges.

TruthLens AI Analysis

The article provides insight into the recent election of Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost as Pope Leo XIV and highlights his personal preparation for this pivotal role, including watching the movie "Conclave." This unique angle demonstrates how even high-ranking officials in the Catholic Church turn to popular culture to familiarize themselves with the processes of their institution.

Cultural Context and Public Perception

By sharing that the new pope watched a dramatized film about the conclave, the article aims to humanize him, portraying him as relatable and down-to-earth. This could foster a sense of connection between him and the general public, particularly among those who have seen the film. The mention of light-hearted communication between the Prevost brothers also serves to ease the tension surrounding the serious nature of the papacy, contributing to a narrative that emphasizes the importance of humor and familial support in high-pressure situations.

Potential Concealment of Issues

While the article is predominantly focused on the personal story of Pope Leo XIV, it may inadvertently divert attention from underlying issues within the Catholic Church, such as ongoing controversies regarding clerical abuse scandals or the Church's stance on modern societal issues. By focusing on a light-hearted anecdote, the article could be seen as an attempt to distract from more pressing matters.

Reliability and Manipulative Aspects

The article appears to be credible, given that it provides a firsthand account from a family member of the pope. However, the storytelling approach can be viewed as somewhat manipulative, as it emphasizes a feel-good narrative while potentially glossing over significant challenges facing the Church. The focus on the movie might be intended to create a softer image of the papacy and distract from deeper systemic issues.

Broader Implications

The news surrounding the election of an American pope could resonate deeply within both American and global contexts, potentially leading to a shift in perceptions of the Catholic Church in the United States. It might also have implications for the Church's engagement with modern issues, suggesting a potential openness to change. The election of Pope Leo XIV could also influence discussions about leadership diversity within religious institutions.

Target Audience

This article likely appeals to a wide range of audiences, including those interested in religion, politics, and popular culture. Its lighthearted tone may attract younger readers or those who may not typically engage with religious news but are drawn in by the connection to a well-known film.

Market Impact

Regarding financial markets, the election of a new pope generally does not have a direct impact on stock prices. However, companies involved in media, entertainment, or religious products might see a slight uptick in interest due to the increased visibility of the Catholic Church and its new leader.

Geopolitical Considerations

The emergence of an American pope could shift the balance of influence within the Catholic Church, possibly affecting its relationship with both the Vatican and global political dynamics. As the world is currently navigating various socio-political challenges, having a pope from the U.S. may position the Church differently in discussions about morality, justice, and international relations.

Use of AI in News Production

It is possible that AI tools could have assisted in drafting or refining the article, particularly in structuring the narrative or ensuring clarity. However, the personal touch of a family member's account suggests a more traditional reporting approach. If AI were involved, it might have influenced the tone or style of the writing to make it more engaging.

The article's primary focus on a personal story rather than broader issues within the Church raises questions about its depth. The light-hearted nature of the content may create a compelling narrative, but it also risks oversimplifying complex realities.

In conclusion, while the article provides an engaging narrative about Pope Leo XIV, it may serve to distract from deeper issues and challenges facing the Catholic Church today.

Unanalyzed Article Content

Source URL: https://www.theguardian.com/film/2025/may/09/pope-leo-xiv-watched-conclave-movie

Vatican watchers weren’t the only ones consulting the movieConclavebefore thepivotal election of a new pope.

The new pontiff himself – CardinalRobert Francis Prevost, who took the nameLeo XIV– watched the 2024 movie dramatizing the Vatican’s selection process ahead of the sequestration of cardinals that chose him to lead the Catholic church, according to his older brother.

John Prevost, the middle of three Prevost brothers – Robert, now the first American pope, is the youngest – told NBC affiliate WMAQ-TV in theirnative Chicagothat he spoke with his younger brother a day before the conclave began.

“I said: ‘Are you ready for this? Did you watch the movieConclave, so you know how to behave?’ And he had just finished watching the movie,” Prevost laughed. “So he knew how to behave.”

The elder Prevost added: “I wanted to take his mind off of it [the real conclave], you know, laugh about something because this is now an awesome responsibility.”

The drama-thriller directed by Edward Berger, based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris, dramatized the selection process of a new pope following the death of a widely popular, moderate one. The fictional film, thoughbased on real details, processes and dynamics within the insular Vatican, depicts political intrigue, gossip and rivalries within the church, ultimately culminating in the election of a surprise outsider candidate.

In real life, the new Leo XIV was on few shortlists for pope, given that no American had ever been chosen to lead the Catholic church, and the fact that he was named cardinal only two years ago. According to his brother, Prevost himself doubted his chances.

“He didn’t think so,” John Prevost said. “I didn’t believe it and Rob didn’t believe it – I should say Pope Leo didn’t believe it at all, because there’s not going to be an American pope was the attitude.”

John Prevost did think his brother was in serious contention, however. “What I was reading and what I was hearing was that there were three outstanding candidates that were in first, second and third place,” he said, “the cardinal from the Philippines, the [Vatican] secretary of state, and him [Robert].”

After a relatively short conclave – a day and four rounds of voting that ended on Thursday evening, local time – Pope Leo XIV assumed the role vacated by Pope Francis, whodied aged 88last month after a long period of ill health, with an address in Spanish and Italian to the many gathered in St Peter’s Square. (The new pope has spentmost of his ecclesiastical career in Peru, and is a naturalized citizen of the South American country.) Now tasked with shepherding the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics through increasingly turbulent times, he will probably have little time for movies. But his brother provided some insight on how he likes to unwind from serious responsibilities.

“First we do Wordle, because this is a regular thing, OK,” John Prevost said. “We do Words with Friends. It’s something to keep his mind off life in the real world.”

Prevost also shared his family’s reaction to the news that his brother had become the 267th pope in history, and the first pontiff from the US. “It’s totally unreal, it’s totally surreal,” he said. “It’s a tremendous thing to take in, but it’s something to be very proud of.”

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Source: The Guardian