
‘Conclave’ – Review
Lauded filmmaker Edward Berger makes a celebrated return to the grand opulence of the cinema with the taut political thriller Conclave, and this a powerfully moving and intense cinematic experience that delivers audiences not only a thrilling watch but an awe-inspired performance from Ralph Fiennes at the top of his game.
Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is tasked with one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events, participating in the selection of a new pope. Surrounded by powerful religious leaders in the halls of the Vatican, he soon uncovers a trail of deep secrets that could shake the very foundation of the Roman Catholic Church.
Edward Berger cements his status as one of contemporary cinema’s most visionary filmmakers with Conclave, a haunting and masterfully crafted tale of political intrigue and spiritual crisis. This is a film that grips you from its opening moments and holds you in its thrall until its final, soul-stirring frame. Adapted from Robert Harris’ novel, Conclave unfolds in the aftermath of the pope’s death, as the College of Cardinals convenes to elect a new pontiff. At the centre of this intense drama is Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes), a man grappling with his own crisis of faith while navigating the treacherous political machinations within the Vatican. Berger’s direction transforms this story into a gripping thriller, one that feels both deeply intimate and grand in its scope.
Ralph Fiennes delivers what might be the performance of his career as Cardinal Thomas Lawrence. His portrayal is layered and profound, capturing a man torn between duty and doubt, conviction and despair. Fiennes commands every scene, imbuing Lawrence with a quiet intensity that becomes all the more compelling as the film’s secrets unfold. His nuanced performance reveals a man at war with himself, his faith tested to its breaking point as he confronts the weight of his responsibilities and the darkness within the institution he serves.
What sets Fiennes apart in this role is his ability to convey the internal conflict of Cardinal Lawrence with minimal dialogue, using subtle shifts in expression and body language to communicate the profound turmoil beneath the surface. From the quiet moments of prayer, where his eyes betray a haunting sense of doubt, to the explosive confrontations with his fellow cardinals, where his voice quivers with a mix of anger and desperation, Fiennes brings a raw vulnerability to the character. His portrayal is a masterclass in restraint, allowing the audience to feel every ounce of Lawrence’s struggle without ever overplaying the drama. As the narrative progresses and secrets are unearthed, Fiennes’ performance only grows more riveting. He captures the heartbreak of a man who begins to see the cracks in the very foundation of his beliefs yet must maintain a facade of strength and composure in the face of mounting pressure. The layers of his character unfold with each revelation, culminating in a series of emotionally charged moments that are as devastating as they are cathartic. His performance anchors the film, providing a deeply human perspective amidst the grandeur and political intrigue of the Vatican.
The supporting cast is equally stellar, each bringing depth and nuance to their roles. Stanley Tucci shines as Cardinal Bellini, whose liberal ideals clash with the institution’s traditions, yet who remains a trusted confidant to Lawrence, even if in this feverish election for the papacy, their opinions begin to clash. John Lithgow is delightfully sinister as the manipulative Cardinal Tremblay, his ambitions simmering beneath a veneer of civility. And Isabella Rossellini is a revelation as Sister Agnes, the enigmatic keeper of the Vatican’s deepest secrets. Her performance is a masterclass in subtlety, adding a layer of mystery and wisdom to the narrative.
Visually, Conclave is nothing short of breathtaking. Stéphane Fontaine’s cinematography captures the grandeur and opulence of the Vatican with a painterly quality, evoking the works of the Baroque masters. Every frame is meticulously composed, a testament to Berger’s exacting vision. Complementing this visual splendour is Volker Bertelmann’s hypnotic and operatic score, which elevates the film’s emotional and thematic weight.
At its heart, Conclave is more than a political thriller. It is an exploration of faith, truth, and the human condition. The film poses challenging questions about belief, integrity, and the nature of power, all while maintaining a taut narrative pace that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally resonant, a rare combination that sets it apart as a cinematic triumph.
Conclave is a testament to the power of cinema to provoke thought and stir the soul. With Edward Berger’s masterful direction, Ralph Fiennes’ towering performance, and its rich tapestry of themes and visuals, this is a film that will linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
Image: Roadshow Films