Conclave

 

“There is one sin which I have come to fear above all others, certainty. If there was only certainty, and no doubt, there would be no mystery. And therefore, no need for faith.”

Claustrophobic, provocative yet pastoral, Conclave narrowly skirts around becoming melodramatic by focusing on the sensitive Cardinal Lawrence played beautifully by Ralph Fiennes as he shepherds the politically ambitious and ambiguous papal election and seeks to protect the sheep from the wolves that surround in a wonderfully tense thriller sure to enthral.

Discussion Points:

Conclave is a surprisingly nuanced reflection of the Catholic Church - conservative yet progressive, Eurocentric yet global, full of deep tradition and yet also containing innovation - which means it has something to appease each faction, and something to offend - resulting in a carefully woven tapestry of controversy and contemporary Catholic culture that is sure to provoke plenty of conversation. For every homily that reveals deep pastoral truth, there are constant reminders of sinful, fallen, broken, petty, prideful people. Ralph Fiennes delivers some of his finest work as the gentle yet stern Cardinal Lawrence, who sensitively navigates conclave-shaking revelations amidst his own faltering faith. The screenplay, adapted from the 2016 novel, is pulpy and revels in red herrings and carefully constructed catalysts which thrill and enthral. And the ensemble all rise to the occasion in this claustrophobic chamber piece vicariously confined within the walls of the Vatican - with an applause garnering moment for Isabella Rossellini and strong work from Tucci, Lithgow and newcomer Carlos Diehz. Volker Bertelsmann’s succinct score and the precise editing, direction, cinematography and art direction all further elevate the films politically tense and thrilling atmosphere. One of 2024’s best.