Warning: This article contains spoilers for Conclave.
Conclavedepicts a traditional Catholic practice through its use of different colors of smoke to signal updates to onlookers during an important event. The new thriller is a fictionalization of a real, semi-regular event, which demonstrates some accuracy. For centuries, the papal conclave has used smoke to communicate the results of one of the most anticipated moments in the Catholic Church: the selection of a new pope, which happens inConclave’s ending.
There are only two colors of smoke used in conclaves: black and white. However, regardless of color, the smoke billowing from the Sistine Chapel is both weighty and practical, andConclaveallows the audience to witness and learn about this ancient, symbolic process.Understanding what each color means —black for deliberation and white for decision,which is used whenConclave’snew Pope is chosen— reveals the deep symbolism and traditions that surround this centuries-old Catholic custom.
The Cardinals Use Black Smoke When the Conclave Doesn’t Elect a New Pope
Conclave’s Black Smoke Resembles Failed Deliberation
During the conclave, the cardinals' first vote is cast to narrow down their options among candidates who might best lead the Church. If no candidate achieves the required two-thirds majority vote, black smoke rises from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel. This smoke signals to the public that, despite discussions and ballots, the election remains undecided.
As viewers watch the dark plumes rise, they witness the cardinals grappling with the Church’s most important decision.
The process behind this is meticulous. The ballots are burned after each round of voting, and chemicals are added to create the dark color needed for the black smoke. This ritual, though simple in concept, is layered with meaning.Black smoke represents the cardinals' ongoing deliberation,conveying that the Church leadership is being chosen carefully and with the utmost discernment. As viewers watch the dark plumes rise, they witness the cardinals grappling with the Church’s most important decision.
Conclave Cast & Character Guide
Conclave is a new mystery thriller film surrounding the complicated election of a new pope. The cast includes some extraordinarily talented stars.
Historically, black smoke has also been seen as a mark of suspense.During some conclaves, days would pass with only black smoke rising,typically stirring tension, worry, and curiosity among the faithful who awaited the announcement of their next spiritual leader. The phenomenon of repeated black smoke has persisted into modern times, as witnessed in recent papal elections, adding a layer of mystery to the Church’s internal processes.
The Cardinals Use White Smoke When a New Pope Has Been Elected
Conclave’s White Smoke Means A New Papal Era
The appearance of white smoke signals that a decision has been made,and there is a soon-to-be-announced new pope. When a cardinal finally reaches the necessary two-thirds majority, the ballots are burned alongside a specific chemical compound to create the white smoke. This long-awaited smoke signifies that the Church has found a new leader, ushering in a moment of relief and excitement for Catholics and viewers worldwide.
It marks not only the selection of a new leader, but also the beginning of a new era in Catholicism.
The white smoke tradition was on full display in 2013 with the election of Pope Francis. After several rounds of black smoke,the white smoke finally emerged, accompanied by the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica to confirm that a new pope had been elected. The symbolism of the white smoke resonates deeply, representing purity, unity, and the hope for renewal within the Church. It marks not only the selection of a new leader, but also the beginning of a new era in Catholicism.
Conclave Review: Catty Cardinals Choose The New Pope In Riveting & Excellently Shocking Drama
Conclave is more fun than it has any right to be, a classic thriller with a sheen of prestige that manages to be a damn good time at the movies.
To avoid any confusion about the color, since the early 20th century, the Church has refined the process, adding bells to accompany the white smoketo make the announcement clear. In a 2005 update, the Vatican used modern chemical compounds to ensure the white smoke’s clarity, as smoke misinterpretations had led to premature celebrations or misunderstandings in the past (viaBBC). The visibility of the white smoke, therefore, is now almost as anticipated as the announcement itself, as it unmistakably signals the Church’s future leadership.
Why the Cardinals Use Smoke to Update the Public on the Pope Election
The Conclave’s Use Of Smoke Dates Back To A Time Far Before Mass Communication & Media
The use of smoke during the papal conclave dates back centuries and serves both a practical and symbolic purpose. Historically,before advanced communications, smoke provided a visible sign that people could observe from afar,even if they couldn’t be near the Sistine Chapel.This method allowed all Catholics, regardless of language or distance, to witness the announcement in real-time, a tradition that continues today even with television and digital coverage.
The symbolism of smoke has deep roots in the Church’s history. In the Old Testament,smoke was a sign of God’s presence and intervention, such as when smoke rose from Mount Sinai’s burning bush as Moses received the Ten Commandments. Similarly, the smoke from the conclave serves as a reminder of the divine guidance sought by the cardinals in selecting a new pope. The black smoke embodies patience and reflection, while the white smoke heralds a new chapter, representing clarity, divine choice, and guidance.
The physicality of smoke is also a grounding ritual, serving to unite the Church through a shared, visible experience that is not tarnished by modern glamour. While the conclave is a deeply private affair, the smoke is public, allowing Catholics around the world to connect with the rather enigmatic selection process. The use of smoke in bothConclaveand real life reinforces the Church’s respect for tradition, while also serving as an enduring and memorable method of communication.
Conclave
Cast
Cardinal Lawrence leads the secretive papal election at the Vatican, where he uncovers a conspiracy and a secret that could destabilize the Church’s foundation as leaders gather from around the world.
