New Pope Watches 'Conclave' Movie, Plays Games While Awaiting Conclave

If you've ever been curious about how a prospective Pope spends their leisure time, the answer might surprise you. According to a close family member, the recently elected Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Robert Francis Prevost, enjoys activities that many of us can relate to: playing games and watching movies during his downtime.

As we previously reported, Edward Berger's gripping papal thriller, Conclave, captivated audiences last year. The film's "remarkably accurate" depiction of the papal election process has even influenced real-life religious leaders, including those who participated in the recent conclave to select Pope Leo XIV. The movie's impact was so significant that it was used as a reference by the participants, including Prevost himself.

In an interview with NBC, Pope Leo XIV's older brother, John Prevost, shared insights from their last conversation before Robert's appointment. Amidst discussions about their daily gaming sessions with Wordle and Words with Friends, John inquired if his brother had watched Conclave for any tips on the upcoming conclave.

"He *had* just finished watching the movie Conclave," John revealed. "So he knew how to behave. So, it's that kind of stuff [that we talk about] — I just wanted to take his mind off of [the upcoming conclave]. Laugh about something."

Directed by Edward Berger, the BAFTA and Oscar-winning film Conclave delves into one of the world's most secretive and ancient events — the selection of a new Pope. The story follows Cardinal Lawrence, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, who is responsible for overseeing the covert process following the unexpected death of the beloved Pope. As the Catholic Church's most influential leaders gather from around the globe and are confined within the Vatican, Cardinal Lawrence uncovers a conspiracy and a secret that threatens to undermine the very foundation of The Church.