Before the film’s montage was played during the SAG Awards ceremony, the cast of Conclave also sent well wishes to Pope Francis, who remains in critical condition in hospital after battling double pneumonia and bronchitis
John Lithgow, the 79-year-old actor, believes that the key to the success of Conclave, the film that won the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture on Sunday, is its “extraordinary storytelling.” Lithgow plays a Canadian Cardinal in the film, which centers on the fictional story of a papal election. Conclave’s win at the SAG Awards has been a major highlight, with the film also nominated for Best Picture at the upcoming Academy Awards.
Speaking to reporters in the winners’ room at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, Lithgow reflected on the timely nature of the film. “We shot this film a year ago in January, and things have changed so deeply all over the world in the zeitgeist, for want of a better word,” he said. “I think the film has ended up extremely timely, and it’s very entertaining because it’s extraordinary storytelling and the social organism, electing a leader.”
Lithgow pointed to the relevance of elections in today’s world, noting that they have become “a great big, important subject of our time.” He added, “You cannot help seeing Conclave and not thinking of what happens when different tribes quarrel trying to decide on who is their leader.” He emphasized that the film’s exploration of these themes, combined with its compelling narrative, has captured the attention of audiences.
Before the film’s montage was played during the SAG Awards ceremony, the cast of Conclave also sent well wishes to Pope Francis, who remains in critical condition in hospital after battling double pneumonia and bronchitis. Actress Isabella Rossellini addressed the Pope’s health, stating, “First of all, we would like to wish Pope Francis a quick recovery.”
Later backstage, Rossellini spoke further about the film, which delves into the secretive process of electing a new pope. She highlighted the debates within the church—issues like the role of women, LGBTQ+ rights, and the divide between conservative and progressive views—that mirror those in society at large. “As Italians, we are familiar with the debates within the church,” Rossellini noted, acknowledging the parallels between the Vatican’s struggles and broader societal conflicts.
Sergio Castellitto, another cast member, shared his perspective on the closeness Italians feel to the Pope, noting, “We see the helicopter leaving his place: ‘Oh, is the Pope flying off today and coming back!’”
Pope Francis was admitted to Rome’s Gemelli hospital on February 14, and as of Sunday, the Vatican confirmed that his condition remained critical. However, the statement emphasized that he was alert and well-oriented, despite the seriousness of his health issues. Conclave’s success at the SAG Awards and its timely exploration of the election of a leader have made it a film to watch, resonating deeply with contemporary issues.
