10 Movies and Shows Similar to Conclave (2024)

Description: This Cold War-era film directly parallels 'Conclave's' likely focus on papal succession. Both works explore how a new pope navigates global politics and personal faith. 'The Shoes of the Fisherman' is particularly relevant as it features the first Slavic pope (anticipating John Paul II by a decade) and examines Church-state relations—themes 'Conclave' might update for today's context.

Fact: Anthony Quinn plays a Russian priest who becomes pope. The film was based on Morris West's bestselling novel. It was released during actual Vatican reforms following the Second Vatican Council.

Description: Like 'Conclave', this historical drama examines the collision of spiritual ideals with political realities. Both works likely portray the Catholic Church as an institution grappling with its role in worldly conflicts. 'The Mission's' depiction of 18th-century Jesuits in South America offers a historical counterpart to 'Conclave's' probable contemporary setting, but both explore themes of faith, power, and moral compromise.

Fact: The film won the Palme d'Or at Cannes. Robert De Niro learned to play the oboe for his role. Ennio Morricone's score is considered one of cinema's greatest.

Description: While more theologically provocative than 'Conclave' likely is, both works engage deeply with questions of spiritual leadership and human weakness. Scorsese's film explores the tension between divinity and humanity in Jesus—a theme that might find echoes in 'Conclave's' portrayal of cardinals wrestling with their own frailties while selecting Christ's representative on Earth. Both challenge conventional religious narratives.

Fact: The film was banned in several countries and protested by religious groups. Willem Dafoe's casting as Jesus was controversial. It was based on Nikos Kazantzakis' novel, which was condemned by the Greek Orthodox Church.

Description: While more of a conspiracy thriller than 'Conclave' likely is, both works explore hidden power structures within the Catholic Church. 'The Da Vinci Code's examination of secret societies and alternative religious histories touches on similar themes of institutional secrecy and contested truth that 'Conclave' might address in a more realistic, political context. Both likely feature high-stakes investigations into Church mysteries.

Fact: The film sparked controversy for its fictional claims about Jesus' bloodline. It was banned in some countries with large Catholic populations. The Louvre Museum allowed filming, but with strict conditions.

Description: Like 'Conclave', this Dan Brown adaptation centers on Vatican intrigue during a papal transition. Both works blend religious themes with thriller elements, though 'Angels & Demons' is more action-oriented with its science-vs-religion conflict. The film's depiction of the conclave process and ancient Church traditions would resonate with 'Conclave's' likely focus on the spiritual and political dimensions of electing a pope.

Fact: Tom Hanks reprises his 'Da Vinci Code' role as Robert Langdon. The Vatican denied filming permits, so scenes were shot elsewhere in Rome. The film's plot involves the Illuminati and antimatter technology.

Description: This historical drama shares with 'Conclave' a fascination with the political machinations surrounding the papacy. While 'The Borgias' focuses on the infamous Renaissance family's corruption of the Church, both works reveal how spiritual office can become entangled with worldly power. The series' depiction of papal elections and Vatican intrigue would find echoes in 'Conclave', though the latter is likely more contemporary and less sensational in its approach.

Fact: Jeremy Irons received critical acclaim for his portrayal of Rodrigo Borgia (Pope Alexander VI). The series was created by Neil Jordan, known for 'The Crying Game'. It was filmed in Hungary, with elaborate sets recreating Renaissance Rome.

Description: Like 'Conclave' (2024), 'Spotlight' delves into the inner workings of a powerful institution—the Catholic Church—and the moral dilemmas faced by those within it. Both films explore themes of secrecy, power, and the struggle for truth within hierarchical structures. 'Spotlight' focuses on investigative journalism uncovering systemic abuse, while 'Conclave' likely examines the political and spiritual machinations of electing a new pope. Both films are grounded in realism and emphasize the tension between institutional loyalty and ethical responsibility.

Fact: 'Spotlight' won the Academy Award for Best Picture in

Description: This Irish drama shares with 'Conclave' a profound meditation on faith in crisis. While 'Calvary' focuses on a small-town priest facing a death threat, both works likely explore the challenges of spiritual leadership in morally complex times. The film's dark humor and philosophical depth would resonate with 'Conclave's' probable examination of the Catholic Church's contemporary dilemmas.

Fact: Brendan Gleeson's performance was widely acclaimed. The film's title references the site of Jesus' crucifixion. It was director John Michael McDonagh's follow-up to 'The Guard'.

Description: This HBO series shares with 'Conclave' a deep exploration of Vatican politics and the complexities of papal power. Both works likely examine the tension between tradition and modernity in the Catholic Church, with 'The Young Pope' focusing on a fictional, unconventional pontiff (Jude Law) who challenges established norms. The series' lavish visual style and psychological depth in portraying religious figures would resonate with 'Conclave's' likely approach to its subject matter.

Fact: Jude Law's performance was widely praised, earning him a Golden Globe nomination. The series was created by Paolo Sorrentino, known for his visually stunning films like 'The Great Beauty'. Vatican officials reportedly watched the series with great interest, despite its fictional nature.

Description: As a sequel to 'The Young Pope', this series continues exploring similar themes to what 'Conclave' might address—the selection of a new pope and the power struggles within the Vatican. Both likely depict the intersection of spirituality and politics, with 'The New Pope' adding layers of satire and surrealism to its examination of religious leadership. The series' focus on contrasting papal styles (between John Malkovich's intellectual pope and Jude Law's returning character) parallels how 'Conclave' might explore different visions for the Church's future.

Fact: John Malkovich joined the cast as Pope John Paul III. The series features cameos from real-life figures like Marilyn Manson. It continues Sorrentino's signature visual style, with elaborate religious imagery and dream sequences.