In the wake of Pope Francis’s passing, viewership of the film Conclave—a dramatic depiction of the papal election process—spiked dramatically. According to streaming analytics firm Luminate, the movie saw a 283% increase in daily watch time on April 21, the day after the pontiff's death.

Conclave centers on the secretive and tradition-bound ritual of selecting a new pope, portraying the power struggles and inner tensions among cardinals gathered behind closed doors in the Sistine Chapel. The film, based on the novel by Robert Harris, was originally released in early 2025 to critical acclaim. However, recent global events have propelled it back into the spotlight.

Observers say the film’s sudden resurgence is more than coincidental. Pope Francis, known for his progressive stance on social justice, environmental issues, and Church reform, has left a significant legacy. As speculation about his successor intensifies, the public is turning to fictional portrayals to better understand the enigmatic world of Vatican politics.

Cultural analysts point out that Conclave’s appeal lies in its timely intersection of fact and fiction. “The conclave is one of the most mysterious traditions in the modern world,” said one industry commentator. “When that mystery becomes part of the day’s headlines, it naturally drives curiosity—and streaming numbers.”

Such viewership spikes following major real-world events are not uncommon. Documentaries and dramatizations related to public figures or historic moments often see renewed interest during periods of collective reflection or uncertainty. In this case, the death of the spiritual leader of 1.3 billion Catholics provided a powerful catalyst.

The Vatican is currently preparing for Pope Francis’s funeral, while global attention shifts toward the forthcoming conclave. Cardinals from around the world are expected to gather in the coming weeks to elect the next pope—a process that has historically been shrouded in secrecy but closely followed by the faithful and the media alike.

Experts say the film’s resurgence speaks to broader cultural dynamics. “This isn’t just about entertainment,” one scholar noted. “It’s about a global audience seeking meaning and insight at a moment of transition—through the lens of cinema.”