As an engrossing drama with elements of a thriller, Conclave holds your attention with riveting performances and a daring screenplay.
The Pope has died, and the Church has gathered its leadership and representatives to anoint a successor. What this also means is that under the leadership of Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes), there is the need to conduct a conclave, a ritual and protocol of proceedings.to select a new pope. Past sins come to the fore, and the leaders must take into account the socio political ramifications of their pick which goes through a series of votes. With the need for seclusion and insulation of this world from the outside, the process takes an emotional toll amid the secrecy while the reputation of the Holy Church is at stake. As major candidates for the position are introduced, loyalties are tested and past secrets are revealed amid a series of maneuvers and even subterfuge. When the remaining field is whittled down to finalists, an unexpected figure emerges that threatens to shake the core of the institution.
The plot turns complex and convoluted as we learn more about the candidates, and the story becomes a mystery to be solved with the deceased pope and others having a hidden past. Just when the film seems to be going in one direction and a particular candidate, there is a surprise that elevates this to a special film.
Bolstered
with striking visuals, director Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front) keeps the narrative methodically
paced and always engaging. Fred Zinnemann (The
Nun’s Story) would approve. Well-acted by a strong cast including
Isabella Rossellini, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow, it’s tense throughout its
solemnity and a fascinating depiction of important events in a fictitious, yet
realistic setting.
****1/2
of ***** stars
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