With “Conclave” (2024), director Edward Berger crafts a riveting, thought-provoking and character-driven film that does not shy away from the politics that it vehemently depicts.
The film, set in present-day Vatican City, follows Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) as he is tasked with leading one of the most secretive and ancient rituals: a papal conclave, the process by which the Catholic Church selects a new pope. Lawrence soon finds himself at the center of a conspiracy that could have widespread ramifications for the church. Written by Peter Straughan and based on the book of the same name by Robert Harris, the film also stars Stanley Tucci as Cardinal Bellini, John Lithgow as Cardinal Tremblay and Isabella Rossellini as Sister Agnes.
Prior to “Conclave,” Edward Berger was best known for adapting “All Quiet on the Western Front” (2022) for Netflix. The film received critical acclaim and won four Academy Awards, including Best International Feature Film. While he proved that he could craft an emotionally rich and thought-provoking film, it was a war film that used its action to drive the entertainment. “Conclave” shows that Berger can make a tense and nuanced political drama even better than a war film.
Each scene in “Conclave” is masterful; there is not a dull moment in the film’s entire 120-minute runtime. Paired with Straughan’s crisp and clever writing, the film beautifully explores how faith and ambition often go hand-in-hand and how faith frequently gets left behind. The film teaches how doubt is needed to keep your faith strong, which is emphasized in the movie by Cardinal Lawrence.
“Conclave” is bolstered by an impressive and experienced cast, none better than Ralph Fiennes. Best known for roles such as Voldemort in the “Harry Potter” franchise and Nazi Amon Goeth in Steven Spielberg’s “Schindler’s List” (1993), Fiennes delivers one of the best performances of his career. He brings an emotional depth to the role of Lawrence, portraying a man who is quickly becoming disillusioned with the institution he has devoted his life to. Lawrence’s journey subtly reflects the broader conflicts within the church. Besides Fiennes, Tucci and Lithgow are also outstanding in their respective roles. Lastly, while I immensely enjoyed Rossellini as Sister Agnes, I wish we got more from her character and perspective.
“Conclave” also features tremendous and striking cinematography from Stéphane Fontaine, whose camerawork immerses viewers in the striking opulence of Vatican interiors. Academy Award winner Volker Bertelmann’s score is impactful and draws the viewer to the edge of their seat. The production company’s detailed recreations of the Sistine Chapel, along with on-location filming at Caserta Palace in Rome, allow “Conclave” to feel more like a documentary than a narrative film. Lastly, the costume design by Lisy Christl is stylish and authentic.
“Conclave” largely avoids tackling topics like abuse or reform in detail, which some may view as a missed opportunity. Still, with an unforgettable twist and a top-notch cast, the film stands out as one of the year’s more sophisticated thrillers. It keeps audiences on edge and makes its layered power struggle hard to forget.
Rating: ★★★★★
