A Pope Who Prepares With Popcorn
No one expected the world’s most ancient job to come with a movie night. But just before stepping into the global spotlight, Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost—now Pope Leo XIV—chose to watch the 2024 thriller *Conclave*. His brother, John, shared that this wasn’t just a way to kill time. It was a real moment to connect, laugh, and maybe learn a thing or two about the mysterious Vatican selection process. For a church steeped in tradition, this simple act felt strikingly modern, even a little rebellious. The idea of a future pope getting ready by streaming a suspenseful film is the kind of detail that instantly makes him feel more relatable. Suddenly, the leader of 1.4 billion Catholics seems less distant, more human, and maybe even a bit nerdy.
Movies Meet Real Life in the Vatican
The film *Conclave*, directed by Edward Berger, is all about the secretive, high-stakes drama that unfolds inside the Vatican when a new leader’s chosen. It’s a story packed with rivalries, whispered alliances, and the shock of an outsider’s victory. Leo XIV’s experience eerily mirrors this plot. He wasn’t considered a likely pick—having only become a cardinal two years before. Even his own family doubted it. Yet, like in the movie, the unexpected happened. The actual election took only four rounds of voting over a single day, sending ripples across the world. For many, it was as gripping as any thriller, only this time, the twist was very real.
Staying Grounded With Word Games and Family
Taking the papal seat is a responsibility that could crush anyone. Yet Leo XIV’s brother reveals that the new pope unwinds in the most everyday ways: Wordle, Words with Friends, and playful family chats. This glimpse behind the curtain matters. It shows a leader who finds balance between the immense pressure of his job and simple joys that keep him connected to the real world. His family calls the experience “totally surreal,” but also something to be deeply proud of. For the Catholic Church, and for those watching the future unfold, Leo XIV’s story marks a new chapter—one fueled by curiosity, humility, and a surprising love of thrillers.
Source: Pope Leo XIV watched Conclave movie to prepare, brother says