New Pope Watches Conclave Movie, Plays Games While Awaiting Conclave

If you've ever been curious about what a future Pope does in their spare time, you might be surprised to learn that the recently elected Pope Leo XIV enjoys activities just like the rest of us. According to a close family member, he spends his downtime playing games and watching movies.

As previously reported, Edward Berger's gripping papal thriller, Conclave, captivated audiences last year. Its remarkably accurate depiction of the papal election process has even influenced real-life religious leaders, including those involved in the recent conclave to select Pope Leo XIV. Robert Francis Prevost, now Pope Leo XIV, was among those who drew inspiration from the film.

Pope Leo XIV, a surprising gamer. Photo by Christopher Furlong/Getty Images.

In a recent interview with NBC, Pope Leo XIV's older brother, John Prevost, shared insights from their last conversation before the conclave. They discussed daily word games like Wordle and Words with Friends, revealing that Pope Leo XIV is indeed an avid gamer. The brothers play these games together every day. John also inquired if his brother had watched Conclave for any tips on the upcoming conclave.

"He had just finished watching the movie Conclave," John revealed. "So he knew how to behave. We talked about that kind of stuff to take his mind off the conclave and just laugh about something."

Directed by Edward Berger, the BAFTA and Oscar-winning film *Conclave* delves into one of the world's most secretive and ancient events—the selection of a new Pope. The story follows Cardinal Lawrence, played by Ralph Fiennes, who is tasked with overseeing the covert process following the unexpected death of the beloved Pope. As the Church's most powerful leaders gather from around the world and are locked in the Vatican, Lawrence uncovers a conspiracy and a secret that threatens the very foundation of the Church.