Our Review
Movie: CONCLAVE
Rating: PG, thematic material and smoking
Length: 2:00
Release Date: October 25, 2024
Jeanne: Who knew a film about choosing a new pope could be so fascinating --- and diabolical? As a Catholic myself, there have always been rumblings about the politics associated with the church, but director Edward Berger’s (ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT, 2022) new film, CONCLAVE, elevates the bureaucratic aspects to a whole new level.
The always brilliant Ralph Fiennes portrays Cardinal Lawrence, dean of the College of Cardinals. When the current pope dies unexpectedly, Lawrence is tasked with the traditional duty as dean to oversee the selection of a new pope by the members of the Catholic College of Cardinals. He himself is suffering from a crisis of faith. He had requested a release from his duties so he could seek refuge in a monastery to rediscover his calling. The pope, perhaps aware of his imminent demise, said no.
So now Lawrence is stuck overseeing this new election. There are several cardinals vying for the position. Lawrence is hoping his good friend, Cardinal Bellini (Stanley Tucci), an American and a very progressive cardinal, will prevail. Also in the running is Cardinal Tremblay (John Lithgow) of Montreal, Canada, Cardinal Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto) of Venice, Italy and Cardinal Adeyemi (Lucian Msamati) of Nigeria.
Unbeknownst to everyone in the college, before he died, the pope secretly appointed a new member, Cardinal Benítez (Carlos Diehz) of Kabul. When he shows up, it sends a shock through all those present, but he is ready to support his candidate, nonetheless. And his choice is Cardinal Lawrence. As the voting begins and the cardinals are sequestered from the outside world, the machinations of those who seek power become more sinister.
Based on the best-selling novel of the same name by Robert Harris, CONCLAVE is a truly gripping behind-the-scenes expose of what happens when these men of supposed great faith get locked in together until one cardinal reaches a two-thirds majority vote. The voting itself is done by secret ballots in the Sistine Chapel. At the end of each day, if no majority is reached, the cardinals spend their nights at Casa Santa Marta. Both sets were constructed at the legendary Cinecittá studios in Rome.
And because this is a movie about cardinals and the Catholic Church, the cast is mainly men. However, one of the most powerful behind-the-scenes forces in the church are the nuns. The women, though basically sidelined, still manage to wield some power as evidenced by the steely Sister Agnes (Isabella Rossellini), who runs Casa Santa Marta.
When two of the cardinals who are in contention to become pope are found out to have serious personal issues, it is Agnes who aids Lawrence in his search for the truth. Though nuns are meant to be subservient, Agnes offers “God has nevertheless given us eyes and ears.” AMEN!
As I have written many times, it’s all about the writing. And screenwriter Peter Straughan’s adaptation of Harris’ book is deft, intriguing --- and riveting. CONCLAVE starts off a tad slowly --- David was struggling to stay awake --- but once the parameters for the conclave itself are set, and the infighting begins, the film picks up --- and never lets up.
Fiennes is simply superb. He brings a distinctiveness to his roles that is unsurpassed. Whether he’s playing a maniacal chef in THE MENU (2022) or a conflicted cardinal here, his dedication to his craft never wavers. Lawrence isn’t a verbose man, so Fiennes lets his non-verbal skills shine in this portrayal.
Of course, Tucci is an inspired choice as the American Cardinal Bellini, who battles with his friend Lawrence over who should --- and should not --- be pope. Lithgow and Castellitto are equally adept in their roles --- so delicious to watch. Diehz, in his first major role, is perfectly cast --- you’ll see why --- and Rossellini is quietly marvelous. Wow!
Between now and December 25th, a plethora of great movies will be released. CONCLAVE is top of the list as of now. Don’t miss it!
Opinion: Strong See It Now!
David: Because the election of a new pope occurs so rarely --- the Catholic College of Cardinals votes only in the event of the death of the current pope --- the process mostly is forgotten after the white smoke appears at the Vatican. If anyone needs a refresher, the Vatican releases black smoke to signal no decision has been reached, and white smoke once the voting has resulted in a new leader of the Catholic Church.
Filmed almost exclusively in a restored model of the Sistine Chapel, this fictitious story called CONCLAVE, based on Robert Harris’ best seller of 2016, is a fascinating account of what happens behind the scenes when a new pope must be elected. In the film, six ballots are cast over three days, and the tension builds with the results of each tally.
It certainly helps to have Oscar-winning director Edward Berger (ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT) at the helm, and Oscar nominee Peter Straughan to capture Harris’ words in a script. The music by Oscar winner Volker Bertelmann (also for ALL QUIET), clearly enhances the thrilling aspect of this movie. One instrument utilized here consists of tuned glass rods played by rubbing with wet fingers.
But obviously a roster of distinguished actors is critical, thanks to casting directors Nina Gold and Martin Ware. The film stars Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow and Isabella Rossellini, as well as Italian superstar Sergio Castellitto. First-time Mexican actor Carlos Diehz has a brief but pivotal role as Cardinal Benitez of Kabul.
CONCLAVE could not be released at a more auspicious time for American audiences. With all its political trappings and behind-the-scenes posturing by papal candidates, much of the dialogue sounds like current day pre-election chatter. For example, Cardinal Tedesco of Venice (Castellitto) has some harsh ideas regarding Muslims.
Virtually the entire film takes place in the afore-mentioned restored version of the Sistine Chapel in Italy’s famed Cinecittá studios because the Vatican does not allow filming. However, it is the extraordinary performances that will keep you spellbound. Fiennes has never been better as Cardinal Lawrence, second only to the pope in the Church hierarchy, who must conduct the balloting for a new leader even as he questions his own faith. Tucci as American Cardinal Bellini and Lithgow as Montreal’s Cardinal Tremblay are equally compelling. Rossellini has a very small part as Sister Agnes, but her one major line of dialogue speaks volumes. (see Jeanne’s review)
Everything about CONCLAVE suggests greatness in terms of its place in film history. From the superb ensemble acting to the authentic wardrobes and striking score, this is a must see on the big screen. CONCLAVE also features a major reveal at the conclusion that most moviegoers will not see coming. Of course, Jeanne is not just a “moviegoer” --- she did see it coming, I know, because she whispered it in my ear.
Opinion: Strong See It Now!