Ed Berger’s Conclave is interesting. It may be tempting to skip a pontificating deep-dive into the ritual process of electing a new Pope, for fear of ponce and boredom. However, Conclave keeps its head above water for two hours by exploring the various ambitious tom foolery and backstabbing those left clutching the rosary will get up to, to be elected for the top job. Half the priests in the room don’t want the leadership, while the rest are salivating.
Based on the Robert Harris novel, this film assembles a stellar cast of Ralph Fiennes (Macbeth), Stanley Tucci (The Lovely Bones), John Lithgow (Ricochet), Lucien Msamati (Gangs of London) and debuting Carlos Diehz in a feature role as Father Benitez.
Moving directly to the elephant in the room. Yes, Conclave sets out to challenge traditional Catholic processes and values. This shouldn’t be considered offensive or controversial at all. The struggle to maintain tradition while holding on to faith in a modern world is a core theme explored throughout the story. Alongside gross selfishness and selflessness. The hubris of the church, allowing itself to binge on unchecked wealth, power and influence.
Isabella Rossellini stars as Sister Agnes in director Edward Berger’s CONCLAVE.
Characters portrayed by Fiennes and Tucci carrying a heavy weight as leaders of the conclave while individually doubting themselves. But moments of humour and humanity flow naturally in the space, cramped with ego and ambition.
Then there is the final twist, once the pressure cooker is released. Shocking, hilarious and excellent. Worth the journey.
Conclave is the kind of film drama aficionados will enjoy. Some may consider it slow and snoozy, but it definitely has a soul. Masterfully shot and scored with good comedic timing in unlikely places. Tension and release.
Conclave is in Aussie cinemas now. It’s a good 8/10 clerics locked in a compound. A decent religious and human drama. There’s not a lot of action, but if political drama and conspiracy mysteries are your cup of tea, you’ll get right into this one.
