Pope Leo XIV Enjoys 'Conclave' Film and Gaming Before Papal Election

Curious about how a future Pope spends his free time? A family member reveals that Pope Leo XIV, recently elected, enjoys gaming and movies just like many of us.

As noted earlier this week, Edward Berger’s gripping papal drama Conclave captivated audiences last year, inspiring some real-life religious figures—including those involved in this week’s conclave to choose a new Pope—to turn to the film for its “strikingly realistic” depiction of the process. Among them was Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV.

In a conversation with NBC, the Pope’s older brother, John Prevost, shared insights from their last talk before the election. Amid discussions about Wordle and Words with Friends—yes, Pope Leo XIV is an avid gamer, playing these word games daily with his brother—John asked if Robert had watched Conclave for guidance.

“He had just finished watching Conclave,” John shared. “So he knew how to carry himself. We talked about lighthearted things—I wanted to ease his mind before the conclave.”

Directed by Edward Berger, the BAFTA and Oscar-winning Conclave explores one of the world’s most secretive traditions—selecting a new Pope. Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) oversees this clandestine process following the sudden passing of the beloved Pope. As the Catholic Church’s most influential leaders gather in the Vatican, Lawrence uncovers a conspiracy and a secret that could challenge the Church’s very foundation.