My quick rating – 7.1/10. This best-picture nominee is a gripping political-religious thriller that delves into the secretive and high-stakes process of electing a new Pope. With the sudden death of the current Holy Father, Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) finds himself at the heart of a centuries-old tradition, navigating not just the sacred rituals but also the power struggles and hidden agendas that could shake the very foundations of the Catholic Church.
What makes Conclave particularly compelling is its timeliness. Given the real-world issues surrounding Pope Francis, the film feels eerily relevant, and one can’t help but wonder if it will sway Oscar voters. The film provides an informative and meticulous look into the papal selection process while reinforcing the idea that conspiracy, ambition, and corruption are not exclusive to politics alone—religious institutions are just as vulnerable. And, frankly, that’s not surprising to me at all.
Ralph Fiennes delivers yet another powerhouse performance, embodying Cardinal Lawrence with a restrained intensity that makes every line of dialogue feel weighty. His ability to command the screen in any role is undeniable (though Strange Days still holds a special place as my personal favorite performance of his). His presence elevates the film, adding depth and tension to each scene. Isabella Rossellini, nominated for Best Supporting Actress, brings a quiet but undeniable authority to her role, and the rest of the cast is equally up to the challenge of carrying such a dialogue-heavy film.
The cinematography is striking, particularly the scene of the cardinals walking through the Vatican courtyard, their faces shadowed beneath umbrellas—I thought one of the film’s most visually arresting moments. The careful framing and lighting choices contribute to the movie’s sense of solemnity and intrigue, making even the quietest scenes feel charged with meaning.
However, where this film falters is its ending. The film builds tension beautifully, layering secrets and power plays with precision, only to stumble in its final moments. The conclusion doesn’t quite deliver on the film’s promises, leaving a sense of unfulfilled potential.
Overall, Conclave is a smart, well-acted, and visually impressive film, bolstered by a stellar performance from Fiennes. It’s thought-provoking, timely, and rich with sharp dialogue, even if the ending doesn’t quite stick the landing.
Amazon along with plenty of other streamers are showing this during the Oscar season.