According to a USA Today report, the event is also known as a conclave, a term that lends its name to a 2016 Robert Harris book-turned-Oscar-winning movie.
Directed by Edward Berger, Conclave is a 2024 political thriller and was written by Peter Straughan. The movie is based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris. Conclave is set during a fictional meeting of red-cloaked cardinals who have flocked to the Eternal City to cast ballots for who will lead the world’s roughly 1.4 billion Catholics.
Conclave (2024) [Genre-Thriller, Mystery]
A masterfully crafted thriller that delves into the clandestine world of the Vatican, offering viewers a gripping portrayal of the papal election process. From the very beginning, the film establishes a mood of hushed urgency. The setting, shrouded in tradition and secrecy, becomes a character in itself. Conclave is a gripping, finely crafted drama that dives into the closed-door world of high-stakes decision-making with an unexpectedly intense pulse.
The Thriller Storyline
The film establishes a mood of hushed urgency. The setting, shrouded in tradition and secrecy, becomes a character in itself—cold stone hallways echoing with footsteps, candlelit rooms filled with unspoken tensions. Every corner of the screen feels deliberate, and the visuals carry a sense of weight that mirrors the importance of the decision at hand. It’s a slow burn, but it draws you in, scene by scene, until you’re hanging onto every word and gesture.
The narrative centers on Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes), who is tasked with organizing a conclave to elect a new pope following the sudden death of the pontiff. As the cardinals convene, the film meticulously unravels the intricate political maneuvers, personal ambitions, and deep-seated secrets that influence the election process. Fiennes delivers a nuanced performance, capturing Cardinal Lawrence’s internal conflicts and moral dilemmas with remarkable depth. His portrayal has been lauded as “Oscar-worthy,” with critics highlighting his ability to convey the character’s complexity and torment.
The Characters
Stanley Tucci’s portrayal of Cardinal Aldo Bellini adds another layer of intrigue, with his character’s motivations and actions keeping audiences on edge.
Critics have praised “Conclave” for its intelligent screenplay by Peter Straughan, which balances the solemnity of the Vatican’s traditions with the human flaws of its characters.
The film’s Production Design and Cinematography capture the grandeur and secrecy of the Vatican with stunning visuals. The meticulous attention to detail immerses viewers in the sacred rituals and the opulent yet austere settings of the papal enclave. Wide-shot visuals of the Vatican building and the Cardinals as they cast their votes were a feast for the eyes. The camera work is remarkable.
What Made It Win an Oscar?
The chemistry between the two actors created a dynamic interplay that enhanced the narrative, vividly demonstrating how power dynamics can forge alliances or create rifts. The supporting cast also brought their unique flavors to the ensemble, harmoniously creating an intricate web of alliances, betrayals, and shared histories that enriched the storyline. Conclave explores universal themes—power, human frailty, greed, and the ongoing conflict between liberal and conservative ideologies. The film approaches these topics with nuance, making it both timely and thought-provoking.
While the pacing slows at times, it ultimately enhances the film’s tension, keeping me invested and even leading me to form my biased view on who should be elected Pope. The themes invite hours of post-viewing discussion, making Conclave a compelling watch for those who enjoy intelligent, dialogue-driven dramas.
Where Is ‘Conclave’ Available To Watch
After news of Pope Francis’ death broke, the film “Conclave” had a viewership boost across streaming platforms it was available to watch on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, and Sky Store.
“Conclave” was previously on Peacock, but it moved to Prime Video due to a licensing deal between Universal and Amazon. It can also be rented or bought on various digital platforms like Apple TV+, Google Play Movies, Fandango At Home, and others.
IMDb Rating -7.4/10 (Rated By 163k+ Viewers)
Written by Nilesh Shiv