There has long been a Vatican taboo against openly talking about a conclave when a pope is sick: It’s considered gauche to speculate about the election of a new pope while the current one is fighting for his life.

The movie "Conclave" is finding popular appeal as the media monitors Pope Francis' health in Rome, sparking interest in how a real papal election might unfold.

Pope Francis has suffered a serious setback in his two-week battle with double pneumonia. Newsweek's live blog is closed.

Following the episode, the pope began non-invasive ventilation and was responding well, according to the Vatican.

Pope Francis, 88, suffered a bronchial spasm Friday causing him to inhale vomit and be placed on a respirator, the Vatican said. The news is a major set back in his two-week long battle against double pneumonia.