A couple of excerpts from a NYT’s interview with the Conclave author Robert Harris
Why do you suppose that the Vatican hasn’t been hostile to “Conclave,” the book or movie?
Fundamentally I think the story is sympathetic to religious faith, and to Catholicism in particular. It’s written from the perspective of an insider rather than an outsider, of a man struggling to do the right thing. As one of the cardinals says, “We serve an ideal; we cannot always be ideal.”
The final twist in “Conclave” feels like it was written in, and for, this moment. Were you ahead of your time?
I knew it was a risk. But I thought, “This is what novels should do: jolt the reader, cause a commotion, make people think — even if they hate it.” It slipped by without too much fuss nine years ago. The reception of the movie has been different, probably because the issue is so much more potent today.
Also: if you have been following the sex scenes in film discussion on the last posting, the NYT’s today has several articles devoted to the topic.
New York Cynic 
Thanks for that!!Saw the film recently 👍🏼Alice LevineCell 805.452.8681
LikeLike
I came to “Conclave” with zero knowledge of the movie or the book it was based on (except that one of my brother’s college classmates and still a friend was part of the cast). As the cardinals jostled and intrigued for the papacy it was clear that Benitez was the best choice — unlike the other candidates he had lived the message of Jesus, serving in some of the most dangerous parts of the world. Do I even care that he had a uterus? Please!
He demonstrated a truth that sadly many of my fellow Americans seem to have forgotten: the person who declines an invitation to power is often the best one to wield it.
LikeLike
Of course I want to know what role your friend had. And any related gossip about the making of the film and or its stars!
LikeLike
It’s such a fine movie. I keep thinking of the scenes, of Fiennes facial expressions as he doubts, believes, searches himself for flaws he hasn’t recognized; attempts to be the “manager” he is supposed to be; and overall the exploration of the contrast between what’s said and what’s thought; aspirations to goodness and lives lived by imperfect people. Then the strange but beautiful ending; a hermaphrodite pope who is almost a Christ figure, elected ! In a moment of beatitude ? Is that what that was? And finally who would make a better Pope?
For the church, probably
Lawrence; but for Christianity; probably the Afghan.
LikeLike