It’s official: the 2025 conclave has concluded with the election of 69-year-old Cardinal Robert Prevost as the new pope, Leo XIV. While the historic process has now come to an end, interest in the centuries-old tradition—and the drama behind it—is still going strong, thanks in large part to the 2024 film Conclave.
The political thriller, which stars Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow, continues to captivate audiences with its gripping portrayal of the secretive papal selection process. Since the death of Pope Francis on April 21st, viewership for the film has skyrocketed—and it’s easy to see why.
What many once considered a ceremonial formality is now being recognized for what it truly is: a high-stakes event full of political intrigue, strategy and persuasion. So, whether you’re curious about what just happened behind closed Vatican doors or simply want a riveting dramatization of one of the world’s most mysterious traditions, Conclave is well worth the watch. In this post, we’ll tell you how to stream the film at home and break down what it gets right—along with key insights into the real-life events that inspired it.
Where to Stream ‘Conclave’ Movie for Free at Home
For those who have been looking across your countless streaming services for a free way to watch the film, you’re in luck as of April 22. After months of only being able to watch the film by renting or purchasing it digitally, Prime Video subscribers can now watch Conclave for free with their subscription.
That being said, there are plenty of other ways to see the Oscar-winning film if you don’t have a Prime Video subscription. Find those below:
Rent or Purchase ‘Conclave’ Through the Following Services:
The Real Conclave: Who Is Pope Leo XIV? What to Know About the First American Pontiff
Unlike in the film Conclave, which dramatizes a week-long voting process, the real 2025 conclave wrapped up in just over 24 hours. On May 8, white smoke rose from the Sistine Chapel chimney, signaling the election of a new pope—and moments later, 69-year-old Cardinal Robert Prevost stepped forward as Pope Leo XIV, making history as the first American pontiff in the Catholic Church’s 2,000-year history. Born in Chicago and known for decades of missionary work in Peru, Leo XIV was appointed by Pope Francis in 2023 to lead the Vatican’s powerful office of bishops—a role that, as Conclave viewers know, plays a pivotal part in shaping global Church leadership.
From the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV gave his first public address and officially became the sixth pope from the Order of St. Augustine, a religious order rooted in community and spiritual harmony. The conclave itself was a highly secretive affair involving 135 cardinal-electors who voted in complete isolation — as we well know. While the vote tallies remain confidential, the quick decision and enthusiastic response from the cardinals suggest Prevost commanded strong early support. A Vatican-released video captured his smiling exit from the Sistine Chapel, followed by a quiet moment of prayer alone in the Pauline Chapel—a symbolic gesture underscoring the weight of his new role.
What is the ‘Conclave’ Movie About?
While its plot may sound a bit routine, Conclave is anything but. The film, which is based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris, gives viewers fly-on-the-wall access to one of the most secret processes of all time — one that is typically full of political savvy, drama and suspense.
The fast paced, gripping story follows Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) who, as dean of cardinals, must congregate all the cardinals in the Vatican to select the new pope after the previous (fictional) pope dies suddenly of a heart attack.
From the very start of the film, it’s clear that personal interests are very much a part of Church politics. As the doors to the Sistine Chapel close and the ballot process begins, what unfolds is a high-stakes spiritual and political showdown between sharply divided factions — from extreme traditionalists to modern reformers. With each round of voting, tensions rise and hidden agendas surface, forcing Lawrence to navigate a minefield of secrets, rivalries and unexpected revelations.
Directed with elegant restraint and driven by a commanding performance from Fiennes, Conclave is a perfect example of intelligent entertainment — a taut, intriguing thriller set against one of the world’s most sacred and ancient events. And with the real-world news of a papal death, its themes of succession, faith and human fallibility feel more relevant now than ever.
Watch Conclave on DIRECTV
Looking for a way to rent Conclave to watch at home today? Find it available to rent from DIRECTV on Demand! Or stream it now on Prime Video.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'Conclave' available on any streaming services for free?
As of April 22nd, 'Conclave' is available to stream on Prime Video.
Where can I rent 'Conclave' movie?
DIRECTV On Demand, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, and YouTube TV.
Who is the new pope in real life?
On May 8th, 2025, the new pope, Cardinal Robert Prevost AKA Pope Leo XIV, was elected after only about 24 hours of the conclave.
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