The film, a papal political thriller, offers viewers a deep dive into the meticulous and ritualistic process of electing a new Pope—the leader of the Roman Catholic Church and sovereign of the world’s smallest state, the Vatican.
At the heart of the story is Cardinal Dean Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes), tasked with orchestrating the process known as the Papal Conclave. This centuries-old tradition dictates that all Cardinals participating in the election must remain locked (conclave > cum clave – with a key) inside the Sistine Chapel until a new representative of the Church is chosen.
Intrigue, political maneuvering, ideological clashes between conservatives and progressives, skeletons from the candidates’ closets that could tarnish the Church’s reputation, and crises both within and outside the Sistine Chapel’s walls are just some of the challenges facing Cardinal Lawrence. Ralph Fiennes portrays the role with remarkable skill, exuding a calm demeanor and profound sense of duty that resonate with the audience.
While the role may not demand the intensity of some of Fiennes' past performances (e.g., Lord Voldemort in the Harry Potter franchise), he masterfully conveys the gravity and inner conflict required for this character.
Supporting him are an exceptional cast: Isabella Rossellini shines in a small but pivotal role, while John Lithgow delivers yet another outstanding performance, proving his range, from Winston Churchill in The Crown to Barney Stinson's father in How I Met Your Mother. And then there's Stanley Tucci—a phenomenon in his own right, consistently delivering flawless performances throughout his career.
Special mention goes to the film’s music, which enhances its dramatic and solemn atmosphere, and to the costumes, which are meticulously crafted to reflect the grandeur and traditions of the Roman Catholic Church.
The direction deserves praise, particularly in the film’s latter moments, where an intentional air of mystery is created around the outcome. The cinematography is polished, and attention to detail ensures authenticity in representing Church protocol.
Verdict: While Conclave tackles a niche subject, it holds a certain appeal, akin to political dramas that delve into power dynamics and intrigue. Personally, I found it both enlightening—learning details I hadn’t previously considered—and enjoyable for its measured, thoughtful performances.
The only downside? The abrupt ending. It felt as though the conclusion didn’t quite land as intended, leaving a sense of incompleteness.
That said, for those who stick with it, Conclave offers a captivating glimpse into a world of tradition, power, and the human flaws that shape even the most sacred decisions.