We Have a Pope

Following the passing of the pope, the conclave of cardinals convenes in Rome to begin the process of selecting a new leader for the Catholic Church. This moment marks the beginning of intense debates and strategic maneuvering among the cardinals as they consider potential successors.

The conclave votes for the first time, resulting in black smoke from the Sistine Chapel, a traditional sign that no candidate has achieved the required majority. This outcome leads to their continuing deliberations and the need for further rounds of voting.

After several rounds of voting, Cardinal Melville is unexpectedly elected as the new pope. This outcome surprises many, as he had not been considered a leading candidate, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the conclave.

Despite feeling unprepared and overwhelmed by the responsibilities ahead, Cardinal Melville accepts the papacy. His acceptance is met with anticipation and hope but also underlines the internal conflict he faces about his new role.

As the faithful gather in St. Peter's Square, excitement builds for the announcement of the new pope's name. The cardinal proto-deacon stands ready to deliver the news, creating a palpable tension among the crowd.

Just before he is to make his appearance on the balcony, Cardinal Melville experiences a panic attack. This unexpected emotional crisis prevents him from fulfilling the expectations of the cardinals and the public, heightening the atmosphere of uncertainty.

In response to Melville's absence, the spokesman of the Holy See sidesteps probing questions from journalists. He asserts that the new pope is engaged in private prayer and contemplation, attempting to calm public concern while the situation remains unresolved.

The cardinals realize that the election process cannot be officially completed without Melville's public naming. The conclave remains in an impasse, and the emotional struggles of their newly elected pope intensify the anxiety within the ranks of the College of Cardinals.

In an attempt to address the growing crisis, the cardinals call upon Professor Brezzi, a psychoanalyst. Though initially skeptical of his unconventional methods, they allow him to assess Cardinal Melville's mental state in hopes of resolving the worry surrounding his absence.

During a therapy session, Professor Brezzi struggles to help Melville confront his feelings of depression and inadequacy. The discussion reveals deeper personal conflicts, which lead Melville to discreetly seek assistance from his ex-wife, who is also a psychoanalyst.

Taking advantage of a moment during his leisurely walk, Melville successfully escapes from his keepers. This decision signifies a turning point, as he seeks solace away from the expectations placed upon him as the new pope.

Meanwhile, the cardinals try to occupy themselves with various activities, such as playing cards and participating in an international volleyball match organized by Brezzi. This lighthearted distraction serves as a temporary reprieve from the underlying tensions in the conclave.

The spokesman continues to assure the public that the new pope is simply engaged in private prayer. These repeated assurances build up the mystique of Melville's absence but also raise suspicions about the true nature of the situation within the Vatican.

Eventually, the cardinals locate Melville and persuade him to make another attempt at his public acceptance. When he finally steps onto the balcony, his message reveals his deep volatility; he confesses, 'I am not the leader you need.'

In a moment that leaves the faithful in confusion, Melville asks the crowd to pray for 'what he is about to do.' He then retreats into St. Peter's Basilica, leaving unanswered questions and a sense of uncertainty about the future of the papacy.