Later in the day, the cardinals walked in procession through corridors lined with frescoes, marble and Swiss Guards donning warlike helmets.

WSJ: Black Smoke Signals No New Pope

The resignation was marked by the papal Swiss Guards stepping down from their posts at Castel Gandolfo to return to the Vatican.

BBC: Pope Benedict XVI formally resigns to become 'pilgrim'

Throughout the stadium's aisles a trampish flower seller -- a traditional figure of carnivals -- was chased by a posse of Swiss guards.

CNN: 'Magnificent' Games sent off in style

What grips the movie, for all its amused glances at Swiss Guards and ceremonial pomp, is the prospect of a single soul in crisis.

NEWYORKER: Have Mercy

Today, Papal Swiss Guards still carry halberds on ceremonial occasions.

WSJ: Collecting: Antique Arms and Armor Auctions Recall Ancient Warriors

There, from a balcony, he will greet crowds one last time before his resignation takes effect and the Swiss Guards, who by tradition protect the pope, ceremonially leave the residence's gate.

CNN: STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Later, senior Vatican officials and a detachment of the Swiss Guards, who by tradition protect the pope, will gather to bid him farewell as his helicopter takes off from Vatican City bound for the summer papal residence, Castel Gandolfo.

CNN: February 28, 2013 -- Updated 1105 GMT (1905 HKT)