Conclave
Are you in the mood for a mysterious, political thriller centered on the Vatican? For me, the answer is a resounding yes.
Conclave, directed by Edward Berger, dives into the shadowy world behind Vatican doors, where a gathering of cardinals assembles to elect a new pope following the death of the previous one. The conclave process, which is famously private, serves as the perfect backdrop for a story brimming with suspense and intrigue. Berger approaches this world with a vision of what it truly is—a high-stakes political arena, not just a religious institution, where alliances, hidden agendas, and buried secrets simmer beneath the surface. In essence, the Vatican becomes a microcosm of modern political machinations, where each cardinal brings their ambitions, allegiances, and concealed motives to the table.
The narrative focuses on four cardinals, each vying for the crucial votes to become the next pope: two liberals and two conservatives—a setup that mirrors familiar real-world political rivalries. However, instead of dwelling on predictable conflicts, Conclave takes a thoughtful stance on power, offering a grounded portrayal of how the contemporary world operates. Berger presents a critical perspective without veering into cynicism or disrespect, acknowledging the significance of these processes for both real-life devotees and the on-screen characters.
The film's atmospheric direction pulls viewers deep into the cloistered, maze-like world of the Vatican. Inside this confined setting, the cast vividly brings each character's complexities to life. Ralph Fiennes shines as the central figure, embodying the anguish of a man who attempts to act with integrity, even when his choices are difficult and often go against the grain. Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Sergio Castellitto also deliver strong performances, bringing a range of diverse and dramatic characters to life.
Visually, the cinematography is stunning—nearly every frame could be a poster, showcasing the opulence and gravity of the Vatican setting.
However, after building tension and layering intrigue, the film comes down to two pivotal questions: who will ultimately ascend as pope, and how will the backdoor dealings unfold? If you have an eye for plot twists, you may guess the outcome within the first 20–30 minutes. Berger seems aware of this potential predictability, opting to introduce a shocking twist at the end to disrupt expectations. Yet, this twist—designed to elevate the story—ultimately undermines it. Rather than delivering a cohesive conclusion, the final revelation feels like a forced “gotcha” moment. While it could inspire broader conversations outside the film, within this story, it lands awkwardly, detracting from what was otherwise a finely crafted thriller.
Conclave offers an engaging portrayal of Vatican politics and religious power struggles with impressive performances and captivating visuals. Even with a twist that reaches a bit too far, Conclave is still a gripping watch for anyone fascinated by the intense world of religious and political power plays.
7/10
