Megyn Kelly's condemnation of the movie "Conclave" has sparked significant debate on its portrayal of Catholic themes.
The former television host criticized the mystery thriller for what she perceives as anti-Catholic sentiment, specifically targeting its controversial depiction of the pope, Mail Online reported.
Expressing her thoughts on social media platform X, Kelly described "Conclave" as the "most disgusting anti-Catholic film" she has seen. Her post appeared just hours before the Golden Globes ceremony, where the film was set to compete in multiple categories.
The film's plot centers around a secretive gathering of cardinals at the Vatican tasked with choosing a new pope. This dramatic premise unfolds with a series of revelations that challenge the characters’ integrity and faith.
Directed by Edward Berger, "Conclave" features a renowned cast including Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini. The psychological depth brought forth by these actors has earned the film six nominations at the Golden Globes, including Original Score, Screenplay, and Drama Motion Picture.
Ralph Fiennes, known for his nuanced performances, is nominated for Actor in a Drama Motion Picture. Rossellini has garnered a nod in the Supporting Actress category, which has further heightened the film's profile in the awards circuit.
Kelly's critique emphasized her disappointment, particularly with a major plot twist involving the pope's character. Revealing this twist, she noted the pope is portrayed as intersex, which she argued was handled in a manner disrespectful to Catholic tradition.
The portrayal of nearly all the cardinals as morally compromised was another aspect Kelly highlighted negatively. She stated, "There are almost no redeeming characters in the movie; every cardinal is morally bankrupt/repulsive."
Her remarks have initiated a flurry of reactions online. Some followers echoed her sentiments, pointing out their discontent with how Catholic figures are represented in contemporary media.
However, there was also support for the film. Defenders argued that "Conclave" offers a compelling and realistic illustration of Vatican politics, with complex characters that hold the viewer's interest despite their flaws.
Kelly strongly reacted to the film, specifically critiquing its timing and target audience. She tweeted, "What a thing to release to streaming just in time for Christmas," suggesting a strategic release schedule aimed at maximizing impact during a religious season.
She also argued that filmmakers would not create such portrayals about other religious groups, stating, "They would never do this to Muslims, but Christians/Catholics are always fair game to mock/belittle/smear."
This sentiment resonates with a segment of her audience, who view the movie as part of a broader cultural insensitivity toward Catholicism.
The controversy surrounding "Conclave" drives ongoing debates about religious sensitivity in entertainment. The film's nomination and potential accolades place it at the center of discussions on balancing artistic freedom with respectful portrayal.
As the Golden Globes approach, industry observers and fans eagerly monitor whether the backlash will influence the film’s chances of winning awards. Regardless of the results, "Conclave" already sparks significant conversation about the boundaries of narrative and representation in cinema.
Kelly’s outspoken stance reveals her personal views and prompts a broader discussion on handling religious themes in media. This incident reminds creators to maintain a delicate balance when addressing sensitive subjects.
The debate over "Conclave" mirrors larger discussions on religion in public spaces. Filmmakers continue exploring complex themes, and audiences and critics alike respond with a diverse spectrum of beliefs and values.
This situation highlights how dialogue and understanding shape narratives that resonate while respecting viewers' deeply held beliefs around the world.
Both sides of the argument actively engage with cinema, demonstrating vibrant public discourse that transcends mere entertainment and touches on core aspects of identity and belief.
