Conclave

In the climax of Conclave, the fictional Cardinal Benitez is elected as the new pope after a dramatic conclave, where passions and politics run high. However, the revelation of Benitez’s secret—that he is intersex and had initially considered having surgery to conform to traditional gender norms—adds a profound layer of complexity to his victory. Cardinal Lawrence, who had initially aimed for a less politically charged election, opts to keep this secret quiet, recognizing that revealing it could destabilize the Church even further. The ending suggests that, despite all the political maneuvering, scandals, and ideological battles, the core message of the film revolves around the importance of acceptance and human imperfection. Cardinal Benitez’s secret becomes a symbol of the hidden flaws everyone carries, reminding the audience that even those supposedly chosen for leadership are riddled with personal struggles and secrets. Ultimately, the film leaves viewers with a thought-provoking reflection on the possibility of a more inclusive future for the Church, one that perhaps relies more on love and understanding than on rigid dogmas and appearances. The concluding act underscores that, in a world full of secrets and contradictions, true leadership may come from embracing our flaws and advocating for compassion over perfection.

Last Updated: June 25, 2025 at 08:44