"Conclave," a fictional account of cardinals tasked with selecting a new pope when the acting Holy Father suddenly dies, garnered eight Academy Award nominations. (Focus Features)
NCR's coverage of films nominated for Academy Awards in 2025.
The films of 2024 have reminded us that, quite frankly, we all pray — whether or not we fold our hands, even if we may never utter the words "Amen" or have ever directly cried out to God.
"Wicked (Part 1)" provides an immersive sensory experience and a story of just how much the marginalized have to teach us, hailing solidarity as our greatest hope for overcoming oppressive powers.
Why are cardinals sequestered during papal elections? Because it took centuries for the church to develop an electoral system free from manipulations and violence — which should resonate with contemporary politics.
NCR spoke with "Conclave" director Edward Berger and actors Ralph Fiennes and Isabella Rossellini about accuracy in liturgical portrayals, the role of faith in the creative process, and thoughts about spiritual leadership.
In a time of deserved mistrust against religious institutions, "Conclave" makes a compelling and ecclesial call for a renewed spiritual stewardship characterized by humility, meekness and, curiously, doubt.
If you're among the Catholics disappointed by the synod's failure to sufficiently amplify the voices and perspectives of women, you might take heart in one (or all) of the many female-led films being released this fall.
The gorgeously animated new movie "The Wild Robot" may help to plant seeds for a better future, giving families an entertaining entryway to conversations about mutuality and solidarity with the environment.
