Conclave

The Vatican political thriller is gripping if at times melodramatic

Vatican politics have long been a rich setting for drama, from Paolo Sorrentino’s The Young Pope (2016) and The New Pope (2020) to Fernando Meirelles’ The Two Popes (2019). Even The Godfather: Part III (1990) delved into papal intrigue. However, no film has explored the political dimension of papal elections as thoroughly as Edward Berger’s Conclave (2024).

Adapted from the eponymous novel by Robert Harris, Conclave follows the aftermath of the pope’s death, as the Vatican’s Dean, Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes), is tasked with organizing the election of a new leader for the Catholic Church. Cardinal Lawrence must navigate the competing factions within the Church—conservatives like Cardinal Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto), liberals like Cardinal Bellini (Stanley Tucci), and moderates like Cardinal Tremblay (John Lithgow).

Berger’s previous film was the harrowing and gripping adaptation of All Quiet on the Western Front (2022). With Conclave, he retains the tension and thrills, though far removed from the WWI trenches of his last film. This political thriller will appeal to fans of both the cynical House of Cards (2013–2018) and the idealistic The West Wing (1999-2006). Berger strikes a balance between cynicism and hope, keeping viewers uncertain about the film’s ultimate stance until its final moments. He also deftly explores the intersection of faith and responsibility within institutions that aim to uphold meritocratic democracy. In many ways, Conclave is a timely watch ahead of the upcoming U.S. presidential election, as the cardinals grapple with the same dilemma many voters face: whether choosing the “least harmful” option is a pragmatic necessity or a betrayal of principle.

Ralph Fiennes is fantastic, as always, in the lead role, conveying internal conflict and moral struggle with the subtlest of gestures. Actors should study the way he uses minute movements—an exhale, a glance—to express the temptation of ambition clashing with his conscience. The supporting cast is equally strong, but Isabella Rossellini stands out as a nun serving the cardinals. With only a handful of scenes, she communicates more with a simple curtsy than many actresses can in lengthy monologues. Her bowed head and sidelong glances reveal a wit and shrewdness rarely seen in contemporary performances.

Conclave, however, does stumble into melodrama at times. The rapid succession of scandals uncovered by Cardinal Lawrence stretches plausibility, feeling too conveniently timed for dramatic effect. A pivotal action sequence also feels out of place, momentarily shifting the film from a contemplative political thriller to something more theatrical. While the film’s finale is both surprising and symbolically fitting, it falters slightly—the climactic speech, meant to sway the election, is too brief and understated to convincingly shift the majority vote.

Nevertheless, Conclave remains a compelling political thriller and one of the most insightful films about Vatican politics. Anchored by a stellar Fiennes, the ensemble cast keeps viewers guessing about shifting alliances and hidden agendas. While the film occasionally dips into melodrama and implausibility, it never derails, making Conclave one of the season’s standout thrillers.

7.9/10