In the heart of Rome, the sudden death of the Pope sends shockwaves through the Catholic Church, igniting a fierce battle for the papacy among the College of Cardinals. The story unfolds within the confines of the Casa Santa Marta, where the cardinals are sequestered to elect a new leader. Cardinal Lawrence, a weary and introspective figure, finds himself thrust into the role of Dean of the College, tasked with guiding the Conclave amidst a backdrop of political maneuvering, personal ambition, and deep-seated secrets.

As the cardinals gather, tensions rise. Each cardinal represents different factions within the Church, with their own agendas and beliefs. Cardinal Tremblay, a charismatic yet controversial figure, emerges as a frontrunner, while the more progressive Cardinal Bellini struggles to gain traction. Meanwhile, the newly appointed Cardinal Benitez, who has a mysterious past, enters the fray, complicating the dynamics further. Lawrence, who has his own crisis of faith, grapples with the weight of leadership and the moral implications of the choices he must make.

The Conclave begins with a series of ballots, each revealing the shifting alliances and hidden agendas of the cardinals. As the voting progresses, Lawrence uncovers a scandal involving Tremblay, who may have orchestrated a scheme to undermine his rivals. The stakes escalate when a bomb explodes outside the Vatican, heightening the urgency of the election and forcing the cardinals to confront not only their ambitions but also the safety of the Church in a world fraught with violence.

Amidst the chaos, Lawrence must navigate the treacherous waters of ecclesiastical politics while remaining true to his principles. He faces pressure from his peers to support Tremblay, but his conscience compels him to seek the truth. As secrets unravel, including the revelation of Benitez's unique identity and the implications of his past, the Conclave becomes a crucible for faith, power, and redemption.

In a climactic moment, Lawrence stands before the assembled cardinals, ready to reveal the truth about Tremblay's misconduct. However, he is met with resistance and fear of the repercussions that such revelations could bring. Ultimately, Lawrence must decide whether to uphold the integrity of the Church or succumb to the political machinations that threaten to engulf them all. The film culminates in a dramatic vote that will determine not only the future of the papacy but also the very soul of the Church itself.

As the new Pope is elected, the cardinals must confront the reality of their choices and the path forward for the Church in a modern world. Lawrence, having faced his own doubts and fears, emerges transformed, ready to embrace a new chapter in his life and the life of the Church.

• In a quiet Roman night, Cardinal Lawrence is abruptly awakened by a cracked window and a ringing phone. He rushes through empty streets towards the Vatican, his disheveled appearance reflecting his urgency. After smoothing his hair and donning his red zucchetto, he encounters a distressed Archbishop Wozniak in the Papal corridor, whom he comforts by acknowledging the happiness he brought to someone. The scene culminates as Lawrence enters a crowded Papal Suite, realizing he is among the last summoned, setting the stage for a significant moment ahead.
• In a stark papal bedroom, three senior cardinals gather around the deceased Pope, participating in a solemn liturgy led by Joshua Adeyemi. As they pray, Lawrence reflects on the personal details of the room, underscoring the gravity of the moment. After the prayer, Joseph Tremblay declares the Pope is with God and announces the vacancy of the Holy See, while Wozniak struggles to remove the Pope's ring, which Tremblay ultimately cuts free, symbolizing the end of an era. The scene concludes with Tremblay's declaration of 'Sede vacante,' marking the official transition of power.
• In the Papal Suite at night, Cardinal Bellini reminisces about his friendship with the deceased Pope while fixated on a travel chess set. As he expresses his grief and reveals the Pope's secret heart condition, Lawrence offers comfort and emphasizes the importance of discretion regarding the media's portrayal of the Pope's death. The scene is marked by somber reflections and emotional connections, symbolized by the chess set.
• In the dimly lit Papal Suite, Lawrence and Bellini confront Archbishop Wozniak, who reveals he found the Holy Father dead and called for help too late. Tensions escalate as Tremblay presents a timeline of the Holy Father's last day, highlighting a heart blockage. Adeyemi questions the implications of the Holy Father's final meetings, while Bellini directs his anger towards Cardinal Tedesco, blaming him for the tragedy. Despite the rising conflict, Lawrence insists on contacting Tedesco, underscoring the unresolved tensions and grief in the room.
• In a small papal office at night, Lawrence delivers the somber news of the Pope's death to Cardinal Tedesco, who is already aware of the situation. As Lawrence's colleagues gather, they debate the urgency of acting quickly versus maintaining dignity in light of the Pope's passing. Tensions rise as Tremblay advocates for immediate action while Adeyemi suggests waiting for daylight. Ultimately, Adeyemi places the responsibility for the upcoming Conclave on Lawrence, who realizes the heavy burden that lies ahead.
• In the somber atmosphere of the Papal Suite's bedroom, Lawrence oversees the preparation of the deceased Pope's body, as Wozniak gently lays a white veil over his face. The priests seal the room with red tape, creating a crime-scene-like environment. The Pope's body is placed in a semi-transparent body bag and wheeled out on a gurney, with Lawrence fixated on the ghostly feet visible through the plastic. The scene shifts to the underground garage where the body is loaded into an ambulance, and the final wax seal is affixed to the door. The ambulance departs, marking the end of the sealing process, followed by a title card indicating 'THREE WEEKS LATER.'
• In the Sistine Chapel, Lawrence observes the frantic preparations for the upcoming papal conclave, where workmen install metal panels to block out light. Archbishop Mandorff updates him on security measures, while Monsignor O'Malley highlights the urgency of the situation, mentioning Archbishop Wozniak's desire to speak with Lawrence, who declines. Amidst the chaos, Lawrence reflects on the temporary nature of his role and expresses concern for the cardinals' comfort, all while maintaining a sense of dark humor. The scene culminates in Lawrence's discomfort as he winces at the noise of a drill, symbolizing the tension and disarray surrounding the conclave.
• In the somber setting of the Room of Tears behind the altar of the Sistine Chapel, Lawrence grapples with his faith and feelings of betrayal regarding the late Pope John the Twenty-Third. As he reflects on their past relationship, Bellini enters and offers support, revealing the Pope's own doubts about the Church. Their conversation fosters a moment of shared understanding, leaving Lawrence in contemplation as they share a silent connection, symbolized by the weight of papal vestments around them.
• In the morning at Casa Santa Marta, Sister Agnes prepares for her day while Lawrence, accompanied by O'Malley and Mandorff, awaits the arrival of cardinals. As the cardinals arrive, Lawrence greets them, but Cardinal Mendoza expresses frustration over the increased security and negative public perception due to ongoing protests. The atmosphere is tense as Mendoza learns that Don Tutino will not be attending, leaving him with a grim acknowledgment of the situation before he departs, highlighting the ongoing conflict between the clergy and public scrutiny.
• In a montage at Casa Santa Marta, various dignitaries, including African leaders and Eastern Archbishops, arrive for a conclave. Lawrence shares a humorous moment with Tremblay about Cardinal Guttoso's excessive luggage while discussing the attendees and the absence of Tedesco. Bellini confides in Lawrence about his fears of being unworthy for the papacy, and Lawrence encourages him to reject the notion of being voted for. Tedesco arrives late, engaging in light-hearted banter with Lawrence. The scene concludes with Lawrence offering a quiet prayer for guidance, highlighting the tension and camaraderie among the characters.
• In the evening at Casa Santa Marta, nuns prepare for the cardinals' arrival by turning down beds and organizing toiletries. A surreal moment unfolds as cardinals queue to surrender their mobile devices under Sister Agnes's supervision. Lawrence, accompanied by Monsignor O'Malley and Father Haas, is impatiently searching for someone, asserting his authority by instructing Haas to take his belongings upstairs while dismissing O'Malley's offer to assist. The scene captures a tense atmosphere as the cardinals prepare for the upcoming conclave.
• In a tense meeting room at Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence finds Archbishop Wozniak in distress, grappling with a troubling secret about Cardinal Tremblay's dismissal by the Pope for gross misconduct. Initially irritated, Lawrence listens as Wozniak reveals the Pope's directive to keep the information confidential, creating a moral dilemma just before the conclave. The emotional weight of the revelation leaves Lawrence in pained contemplation, burdened by the implications of the scandal.
• In the dimly lit Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence witnesses the departure of Wozniak as nuns quietly prepare dinner for the cardinals. He is approached by Monsignor O'Malley, who reveals the shocking news of a new cardinal, Vincent Benitez, appointed in secret by the Pope. This revelation unsettles Lawrence, who was unaware of Benitez's existence, and raises concerns about the legitimacy of his appointment. As O'Malley and Archbishop Mandorff discuss the implications, tension mounts, leaving Lawrence anxious about the unfolding situation and the whereabouts of the mysterious cardinal.
• In a tense night scene at Casa Santa Marta, Benitez, a cardinal in shabby attire, sits in a kitchen storage area while Lawrence, Bellini, Mandorff, and O'Malley observe him through a glass wall. Bellini questions the legitimacy of having a cardinal in Afghanistan, expressing doubts about the Holy Father's judgment in appointing Benitez. Lawrence defends Benitez's legal status and insists on the necessity of admitting him, highlighting the conflict between skepticism and the gravity of the situation. The scene captures the uncertainty and concern surrounding Benitez's presence, ending with Lawrence affirming Benitez's right to participate in the election.
• In the kitchen office of Casa Santa Marta at the Vatican, Archbishop Benitez meets with Father Lawrence and Father Bellini. Despite Bellini's concerns about the dangers he faces as a Christian in Central Asia and the diplomatic implications of his presence, Benitez remains resolute in his decision to participate in the election. Lawrence offers to assist him, only to find out that Benitez has no luggage, indicating his intent to disguise his mission. The scene is marked by tension and skepticism, culminating in Benitez's determination to follow his faith as he leaves with Monsignor O'Malley, leaving Lawrence and Bellini puzzled about the irregularity of the situation.
• In a corridor at Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence meets his neighbor Adeyemi, leading to a brief, awkward conversation about Lawrence's upcoming homily. After returning to his room, Lawrence reflects on his sermon, feeling frustrated by its blandness and the pressures of his role. He practices in the bathroom, expressing a desire for the future Pope to promote peace, while grappling with his responsibilities. The scene captures his internal struggle and determination as he contemplates his reflection, reminding himself, 'You’re a manager. Manage.'
• During a dinner at Casa Santa Marta, Sister Agnes observes the lively yet chaotic atmosphere among the cardinals, particularly the loud Americans at one table. Lawrence introduces Vincent Benitez as a new cardinal, who nervously blesses the meal in both English and Spanish. Tension arises when Tedesco expresses skepticism about the church's evolution and the absence of an Italian pope, clashing with Lawrence's progressive views. As the meal progresses, Lawrence feels the hostility from traditionalists and decides to circulate among the other cardinals, leaving the conflict unresolved.
• In a tense gathering at Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence, Cardinal Sabbadin, and Bellini discuss the upcoming papal election. Sabbadin predicts the candidates' chances, while Bellini expresses his reluctance to pursue the papacy due to his progressive beliefs. After a brief interruption, Bellini leaves the group, standing firm in his convictions. Sabbadin assigns tasks to the other cardinals, highlighting the political maneuvering at play, while Lawrence voices concern for Bellini's situation. The scene concludes with Sabbadin reflecting on the dangers posed by those who actively seek the papacy.
• In Tremblay's room at Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence confronts him about a troubling allegation that the Pope demanded his resignation. Tremblay, shocked and defensive, denies the claim and suggests that Archbishop Wozniak's drinking may have clouded his judgment. The tension escalates as Tremblay insists on the sanctity of his private conversation with the Holy Father. The scene culminates with Tremblay turning off the lights and closing the door, leaving the audience in darkness and suspense.
• Lawrence wakes up at Casa Santa Marta, disturbed by snoring, and decides to walk on the treadmill. As the conclave approaches, he feels anxious observing the cardinals. Father Haas helps him dress in ceremonial attire, and in the 'Room of Cardinals,' Lawrence grapples with his internal turmoil. He begins to read his prepared sermon but chooses to speak from the heart instead, emphasizing tolerance and collaboration, surprising the cardinals and creating a moment of connection.
• In a tense scene, Lawrence delivers a provocative speech on the necessity of diversity and doubt within the Church, arguing that certainty hinders unity. Quoting Christ in Italian, he emphasizes that faith and doubt coexist. Following his speech, Lawrence navigates a courtyard of shocked cardinals and later discusses the implications of his homily with Monsignor O'Malley, who reveals the stir it has caused. Lawrence expresses a desire to investigate Cardinal Tremblay's suitability for the papacy, asking O'Malley to gather information about Tremblay's final meeting with the Holy Father, setting the stage for further intrigue.
• In the bustling lobby of Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence is drawn into a loud debate with Tedesco about St. Paul, which embarrasses him in front of onlookers. Attempting to escape the confrontation, he forgets his key and awkwardly returns to the reception, where Sister Agnes scolds him for his carelessness. Bellini then confronts Lawrence about his resignation, expressing confusion and anger over his indecisiveness, leaving Lawrence frustrated and without a chance to respond as Bellini storms off.
• As rain falls, cardinals board white minibuses under the direction of Monsignor O'Malley, while Lawrence reflects on the weight of their responsibilities. Inside the minibus, he contemplates the gravity of the moment amidst organ music and choir singing. The scene transitions to the Scala Regia, where security personnel interact casually, contrasting with the solemnity of the cardinals taking their oaths in Latin in the Sistine Chapel. Lawrence admires Michelangelo's artwork as Archbishop Mandorff commands the clearing of the chamber, marking the transition to the conclave.
• Inside the Sistine Chapel, the Conclave commences as Cardinal Lawrence instructs his fellow cardinals on the voting process for the new Pope. He casts his vote for Bellini, invoking Christ as his witness, while subtly acknowledging Cardinal Tedesco, hinting at underlying tensions. The atmosphere is solemn as each cardinal rises to cast their votes, holding their ballots aloft in a ritualistic display, marking the beginning of a pivotal moment for the Church.
• In the Sistine Chapel during a papal conclave, Cardinals Luksa, Lombardi, and Mercurio meticulously count votes. As they announce the results, tension rises when Cardinal Lawrence is startled to hear his own name as a candidate, while Cardinal Bellini watches him closely. The scene captures the suspense of the election process, culminating in Lawrence's growing anxiety as he hurriedly notes the names on his list.
• In the Sistine Chapel, Cardinal Lombardi announces the results of the first ballot for the papal election, revealing that no candidate has secured the required majority of seventy-two votes. Cardinal Adeyemi leads with twenty-one votes, while Lawrence is disheartened to learn he only received five. Following the announcement, Lawrence adjourns the session until the next morning, and Junior Cardinal-Deacon Guerrini signals the end of the voting by calling for the doors to be opened, leaving a tense atmosphere among the cardinals.
• In a tense scene set in the Vatican, a canister inside a stove activates, producing a whoosh that coincides with jet-black smoke billowing from a temporary chimney outside the Sistine Chapel, signaling a significant event to the gathered crowd. Inside, Lawrence and Monsignor O'Malley rush through the Sala Regia, discussing a cardinal not officially listed, whose health issues and past in conflict zones raise concerns amidst media scrutiny. Lawrence instructs O'Malley to investigate further, hinting at another undisclosed matter, leaving an air of unresolved tension.
• Monsignor O'Malley and Lawrence discuss Cardinal Tremblay's candidacy for Pope as they descend the Scala Regia. O'Malley expresses skepticism about assurances from Monsignor Morales, hinting at a conflicting report. Once in the minibus, Lawrence, feeling embarrassed about his own candidacy, reveals his intention to support Bellini instead. Cardinal Sabbadin critiques Lawrence's lack of backing and emphasizes the need for strategic voting. The scene captures the tension and political dynamics of the election, ending with Lawrence's uncertainty about their conversation being overheard.
• In the dining room of Casa Santa Marta, cardinals mingle before dinner, with Lawrence observing Benitez's interactions with Asian and Oceanic cardinals. Cardinal Mendoza comments on Benitez's reputation, while Tedesco and Tremblay confront Lawrence about his candidacy in the conclave. Lawrence expresses his wish to withdraw to maintain neutrality, but Tedesco insists it's too late, claiming Lawrence is splitting the liberal vote. Despite Tremblay's light-hearted remarks suggesting that Lawrence's stance could make him appear virtuous, Lawrence walks away, leaving the political tension unresolved.
• In the quiet of the Apostolic Palace at night, Lawrence and O'Malley search for a missing report in the Papal Secretary's office, but their efforts yield no results. O'Malley suggests consulting Monsignor Morales, but Lawrence feels they have done enough. As they leave, Lawrence encounters Benitez by a fountain, where they discuss the turtles kept by the Holy Father, symbolizing healing and transformation. The scene concludes with Lawrence deciding it's time to return due to the evening curfew, reflecting a contemplative and somber mood.
• In a contemplative night walk through the Vatican grounds, Lawrence and Benitez discuss their health and recent conclave votes. Benitez reveals he voted for Lawrence, who is surprised and expresses his intention to resign due to personal struggles with faith. They share a moment of vulnerability, acknowledging their unworthiness for the papacy and the heavy implications of such a role. The scene captures their camaraderie amidst deep introspection, ending with a gesture of connection as Lawrence squeezes Benitez's shoulder.
• In the dimly lit Papal corridor, Lawrence encounters Bellini, who is troubled by the political maneuvering surrounding the Conclave. As they debate the candidates for Pope, tensions rise, with Bellini warning that Tedesco's ascension could undo years of progress. Lawrence, feeling guilty about his ambitions, insists he has no desire for the papacy, but Bellini accuses him of lacking commitment and urges him to choose a side. Their heated exchange ends with Bellini walking away, leaving Lawrence distressed and alone amidst the flickering candles and symbolic ribbons.
• In a dimly lit room at Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence kneels in prayer, reflecting on a memory before succumbing to exhaustion and dreaming of the Late Pope. He awakens to muffled voices, overhearing a tense conversation between a woman and Adeyemi, which leaves him unsettled. Curious yet hesitant, he peeks into the corridor but only catches a glimpse of a figure in a blue uniform before retreating to his bed, his mind racing with questions. The scene concludes as Lawrence sits in contemplation, marking the transition to the second day of the Conclave.
• In the Vatican Gardens, Lawrence walks under the watchful eye of a SECURITY MAN and the sound of helicopters, feeling the weight of political tension. Adeyemi joins him, awkwardly praising Lawrence's recent homily while hinting at support for his rise within the Church, which Lawrence interprets as a potential bribe. Their conversation is cut short when Cardinal Nakitanda calls for Adeyemi, leaving Lawrence to contemplate the implications of their exchange as he walks alone, symbolizing the instability of his position.
• In the Sistine Chapel during a papal conclave, Cardinal Lombardi announces the results of the second and third ballots as Cardinal Lawrence decides to proceed with the next vote without burning the ballots. A tremor disrupts the proceedings, and outside, nuns witness black smoke rising, hinting at an explosion. Cardinal Lawrence learns from Monsignor O'Malley about an explosion in Piazza Barberini but instructs him to keep this information from the cardinal-electors to maintain their focus. The scene is marked by tension and somberness as the cardinals remain committed to their voting amidst the chaos.
• During a tense lunch at Casa Santa Marta, cardinals discuss the potential election of Adeyemi as Pope, highlighting the significance of his race. Lawrence enforces isolation rules while Bellini attempts to quell dissenting opinions. The atmosphere is disrupted by a nun's accident, but Landolfi dismisses it. The scene captures the cardinals' unease and unresolved conflicts regarding Adeyemi's candidacy, ending with Lawrence's gaze at Adeyemi's empty chair.
• In the dining room of Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence is approached by three concerned African Cardinals regarding Cardinal Joshua Adeyemi, who left abruptly after a troubling interaction with a nun speaking Yoruba. Cardinal Nakitanda leads the discussion, emphasizing the importance of Adeyemi's purity of heart and conscience as they await the possibility of an African Pope. The scene is tense and somber, highlighting the gravity of the situation and leaving unresolved tension about Adeyemi's future.
• In the kitchen of Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence searches for a nun who had an accident. He learns from another nun that she is with Sister Agnes and insists on seeing her. A tense standoff ensues as Sister Agnes asserts her control over the situation, believing she can handle it. However, Lawrence declares that the Conclave is his responsibility, leading Sister Agnes to relent and allow him entry to check on the nun's welfare.
• In a tense meeting at Casa Santa Marta, Cardinal Lawrence attempts to engage Sister Shanumi about her concerns regarding Cardinal Adeyemi, but she remains hesitant to speak. Sister Agnes tries to intervene but is dismissed by Lawrence, who asserts his authority. Frustrated by Shanumi's reluctance, Lawrence decides to confront Cardinal Adeyemi directly, ending the scene with a determined knock on his door.
• Adeyemi confronts the fallout from accusations of misconduct as Lawrence reveals the truth about his past relationship and a child. Despite Adeyemi's pleas for understanding and his claims of change, Lawrence delivers the harsh reality that his aspirations of becoming Pope are shattered. The scene culminates in a moment of shared vulnerability as they kneel together in prayer, reflecting the weight of moral accountability and the struggle for redemption.
• In a tense scene set in the Vatican Gardens and the Sistine Chapel, Lawrence encounters Nakitanda and his dismayed colleagues before participating in the Fourth and Fifth Ballots for the papal election. Moved by Adeyemi's dignified vote, Lawrence reluctantly casts his own for Bellini. Cardinal Lombardi announces the results, revealing Cardinal Tremblay as the frontrunner, which escalates the scrutiny among the cardinals. The scene concludes with no candidate achieving a majority, leading to a continuation of the voting process the next day.
• In the empty vestibule of the Sistine Chapel, Monsignor O'Malley attempts to discuss sensitive matters with Cardinal Lawrence, including Cardinal Benitez's health and the withdrawn report on Cardinal Tremblay. However, Lawrence, preoccupied and dismissive, insists on remaining uninformed to protect the integrity of the conclave. Tension arises as O'Malley pushes for an investigation into Tremblay's past, but Lawrence firmly rejects the idea, leading to a moment of frustration. The scene concludes with Lawrence reaffirming his decision to cease further inquiries and seeking divine guidance.
• In a tense night at Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence struggles with his shoes as he meets with Bellini and Cardinal Sabbadin to discuss the troubling papal election. They express their concerns about the lack of support for Bellini and the dominance of front-runners Tremblay and Tedesco. Despite their reservations about the candidates' integrity, they reluctantly agree to support Tremblay, highlighting the grim reality of their political maneuvering. The scene concludes with a heavy silence, underscoring the weight of their decision.
• In a tense elevator ride at Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence grapples with the political turmoil surrounding the papal election as Cardinal Lowenstein expresses frustration over the prolonged selection process. A charged glance between Lawrence and the defiant Adeyemi hints at deeper conflicts, while Benitez cautiously invites Lawrence into his room, reflecting the urgency and weight of their situation.
• In the Benitez Room of Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence and Benitez engage in a tense conversation about prayer and the upcoming papal election. Benitez advocates for the power of silence in prayer, which frustrates Lawrence. The discussion turns to the election, where Lawrence pleads with Benitez to support another candidate, Cardinal Tremblay, believing he is unworthy of the papacy. However, Benitez insists that Lawrence is the most deserving candidate, leaving Lawrence frustrated and contemplative as he notices a razor in the room, symbolizing his troubled state of mind.
• In the back office of Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence discusses Sister Shanumi's unexpected departure to Nigeria with Sister Agnes. She reveals that Sister Shanumi was sent to Rome by the Superioress General and suggests Lawrence inquire further after the Conclave. As Lawrence reflects on his past with the late Pope and his current responsibilities, Sister Agnes checks on a silent canary and types an email that hints at Cardinal Joseph Tremblay's request for Sister Shanumi. The scene is tense and contemplative, culminating in Lawrence's realization as he stares at the email, highlighting the urgency and mystery surrounding the situation.
• After dinner, Cardinal Tremblay is confronted by Lawrence in a dimly lit corridor, where Lawrence urges him to withdraw from the papal ballot due to concerns about his character. Tremblay, shocked by the accusations, defends his actions as being in service of the late Holy Father. The conversation escalates into a tense exchange filled with accusations of ambition and deceit. Ultimately, Tremblay dismisses the conversation and walks away, leaving Lawrence frustrated and powerless.
• In the quiet of Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence, driven by a mix of determination and grief, uses a pass key to enter the locked papal suite. As he searches through the Pope's belongings, he is struck by the emotional weight of the empty bed and the memories it holds. Just as he feels the presence of Sister Agnes nearby, he hides in the darkness, grappling with his internal conflict. After she leaves, he continues his search and discovers hidden papers within a frayed headboard, hinting at a deeper revelation.
• In a tense confrontation at Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence presents evidence of Tremblay's simony to Bellini, urging him to continue his candidacy for Pope despite the corruption. Bellini grapples with the moral implications of using the evidence, ultimately rejecting it to preserve his integrity and the Church's reputation. The conflict escalates as Lawrence accuses Bellini of lacking courage, leading to Lawrence's departure and leaving Bellini in deep contemplation.
• In the tense early morning hours of the conclave at Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence faces backlash from Cardinal Sabbadin for mishandling a confidential report. As accusations fly, Tremblay confronts Lawrence, claiming the report is false and accusing him of breaking into the Holy Father's apartment. Sister Agnes intervenes, revealing Tremblay's manipulative tactics, shocking the assembly and shifting the power dynamics. The scene culminates in heightened tensions as Adeyemi accuses Tremblay of betrayal, leaving the cardinals in a state of uncertainty.
• In the prayer room of Casa Santa Marta, Lawrence kneels in prayer, joined by Bellini. They discuss the papal election, with Bellini expressing admiration for Lawrence's leadership and seeking forgiveness for his past advice on ambition. Encouraging Lawrence to choose a papal name, Lawrence ultimately decides on 'John,' a choice that carries significant weight, as acknowledged by Bellini. The scene captures their contemplative and introspective dialogue, highlighting the internal struggle with ambition and the solemnity of their decisions.
• In the Sistine Chapel, Lawrence grapples with a blank ballot, ultimately deciding to vote for himself, invoking Christ as his witness. As he casts his vote, an explosion shatters the chapel's windows, flooding the space with light and revealing Michelangelo's fresco of The Last Judgement. In the ensuing chaos, Lawrence stands in shock as security guards rush in, guns drawn.
• In the Pauline Chapel, Lawrence contemplates Michelangelo's Crucifixion of St. Peter, interpreting its dark imagery as a symbol of the violence engulfing the city. Monsignor O'Malley expresses concern for the Conclave's future, but Lawrence is overwhelmed by the chaos outside. As he observes the turmoil from a police car, he grapples with the implications for the Church. The scene culminates with Lawrence arriving at Casa Santa Marta, demanding privacy to confront the crisis ahead.
• In a tense meeting at Casa Santa Marta, cardinals confront the aftermath of a devastating car and suicide bombing that killed fifty-two people. Lawrence reveals the tragic news, prompting a heated debate between Tedesco, who calls for a strong response against perceived liberal ideologies, and Benitez, who advocates for compassion and unity. The scene captures the emotional turmoil and differing perspectives among the cardinals as they grapple with the implications for the Church's future.
• At Casa Santa Marta, a sense of urgency fills the air as nuns and cardinals bustle about. Cardinal Benetiz sits alone, while Archbishop Mandorff informs Lawrence that the drivers are not ready. In a decisive move, Lawrence opts to walk instead, leading a group of cardinals through the Vatican Gardens under a light drizzle, each holding white umbrellas. This silent procession symbolizes their unity, culminating in a moment of solidarity as Bellini joins Lawrence, reinforcing their shared purpose.
• In the Sistine Chapel, Lawrence leads the final ballot of the Conclave, praying for guidance as the crowd gathers outside. After a tense voting process, he asks Cardinal Benitez if he accepts his election as Supreme Pontiff. Initially hesitant, Benitez ultimately accepts and chooses the name Innocent, bringing relief and applause from the cardinals. The scene concludes with Lawrence kneeling before the newly elected Pope Innocent, who smiles down at him.
• In the Sistine Chapel, Lawrence and Mandorff prepare the acceptance deed for the new Pope, Benitez. Lawrence notices a troubled O'Malley, who expresses confusion and fear about the election's outcome. While Lawrence reassures him about Benitez's leadership, O'Malley's stricken smile hints at deeper concerns. The scene ends with O'Malley requesting a private conversation, leaving an air of tension and uncertainty.
• Monsignor O'Malley confesses to Lawrence about Cardinal Benitez's alarming trip to Switzerland, revealing it was to a clinic rather than a hospital. This news leaves Lawrence alarmed and seeking clarification. As he moves through the Sistine Chapel, he encounters Father Haas, who expresses concern about the Pope not being robed, heightening the tension. The scene captures a sense of urgency and foreboding as Lawrence prepares to confront the unfolding crisis.
• In the Room of Tears within the Sistine Chapel, Cardinal Benitez confides in Lawrence about his complex identity as someone born with both male and female biological characteristics. He shares his past struggles, including the discovery of his female anatomy during an appendectomy and his decision not to undergo surgery, believing it would be a sin to alter God's creation. As Lawrence grapples with this revelation, the emotional tone shifts to one of vulnerability and acceptance, culminating in a profound connection between the two as they acknowledge the shared secret of Benitez's identity.
• In the Pauline Chapel, Lawrence reflects on unsettling revelations about Benitez while finding solace in a small turtle he encounters. After returning the turtle to a fountain, he hears the jubilant cheers of a crowd celebrating the election of a new Pope, marked by the rising white smoke from the Vatican. As he packs his belongings, he feels a mix of exhaustion and accomplishment, before witnessing the vibrant celebration in the streets of Rome. The scene culminates in a café where Cardinal Brotzkus announces the new Pope, igniting a deafening celebration that contrasts with Lawrence's earlier introspection.