People are being urged to watch Conclave for very specific reason following Pope Francis’ death

The movie Conclave has been hailed as essential viewing following the death of Pope Francis.

When it was announced that Pope Francis had died of a stroke and heart failure on Easter Monday (20 April), many rushed to question who the next pope will be, and how he will be chosen.

But a thriller, released just six months ago, reveals exactly what happens during the highly secretive process, that has dated back many centuries in the Catholic faith.

Conclave documents the process of choosing a new pope, but many have questioned exactly how accurate a depiction it is.

Experts have suggested that it accurately portrays many rituals and contemporary problems which face the church today, but officials from the Vatican have claimed that the film doesn't get everything right.

The film follows the story of Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes), who participates in the ancient tradition, known as a papal conclave.

The synopsis of the movie reads: "Surrounded by powerful religious leaders in the halls of the Vatican, he soon uncovers a trail of deep secrets that could shake the very foundation of the Roman Catholic Church."

Fiennes stars alongside Stanley Tucci, future Dumbledore John Lithgow and Isabella Rossellini, who was nominated for an Oscar for her performance in the film.

The film depicts the process of how the new pope will be selected (Focus Features)

And viewers of Conclave are now urging those who are interested in the process, to watch the film.

One on X said: "Now we know what happens inside."

Another added: "I watched it yesterday, you can understand how it all works but I found the plot fictitious given the ending."

A third noted: "It made me understand everything about conclaves and how appointing a new pope is a whole process."

After the death of the pope on Monday, it was announced that Conclave would be made available on Prime Video on Tuesday (22 April) in the US.

In the UK, you can rent the movie on YouTube for £3.49, or on Apple TV and Amazon Prime for £4.99.

The new pope cannot be a woman, according to tradition (Focus Features)

While it's not clear who will be the next head of the Catholic Church, the voting process is likely to last between 15 and 20 days.

The decision will be made by the College of Cardinals - a select group of over 200 senior cardinals chosen by successive Popes - who will vote four times per day until a candidate receives a major two-thirds of the vote.

And while there is no legal age limit when it comes to the important role, one thing is certain - it has to be a man.