“Conclave,” directed by Edward Berger, is a visually captivating yet satirical thriller that explores the complexity of faith and power within the Vatican. Adapted from Robert Harris’s novel, this film brings together a powerhouse cast, including Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow, all playing high-ranking clergymen thrust into a tense power struggle after the pope’s sudden death. This gathering of cardinals called the “conclave,” is charged with the task of electing a new pope, and with it, they bring hidden agendas, rivalries, and a host of personal doubts.
Ralph Fiennes stars as Cardinal Lawrence, the Vatican’s College of Cardinals’ dean, who, burdened with overseeing the election, faces crises in his faith and disillusionment in the character of his fellow clergymen. Fiennes’ Cardinal Lawrence is a blend of wit and sorrow, grappling with his sense of duty amid the scheming and hypocrisy around him. As the conclave unfolds, the film presents a layered commentary on the nature of belief, tolerance, and certainty, leading Lawrence to utter one of its most striking lines: “Certainty is the deadly enemy of tolerance.”
While “Conclave” dances around weighty issues like church conservatism, inclusion, and identity, it ultimately skims the surface, choosing entertainment over exploration of complex topics. Cardinal Tedesco, played by Sergio Castellitto, represents the extreme conservative wing, spouting divisive views that reveal the underlying tensions within the church. However, rather than dissect these topics deeply, “Conclave” uses them as a framework for a character-driven mystery-thriller, where every interaction hints at secret motivations and hidden beliefs. This is further accentuated by Stéphane Fontaine’s cinematography, capturing the grandeur of the Vatican while injecting an almost noir-like quality to the scenes.
In a true B-movie style, “Conclave” leans into its melodramatic elements, with moments of irony and satire that give it a distinctly entertaining edge. The film’s third act veers into absurdity, a twist that challenges viewers to balance their suspension of disbelief. Berger’s background in profound explorations of human morality, as seen in works like All Quiet on the Western Front and The Terror, is at odds with this lighthearted take. Instead, “Conclave” emerges as a playful yet polished thriller that finds its identity in entertainment rather than introspection.
Ultimately, “Conclave” is an engaging, sleek film that taps into religious and moral themes without becoming bogged down by them. It’s a thrilling watch for audiences who enjoy character-driven mysteries, star-studded casts, and clever satire, but it’s best enjoyed without expectations of serious discourse. For fans of pulpy thrillers and viewers looking for a five-star, three-star movie, “Conclave” offers an evening of suspenseful fun in Vatican garb.
Source: Swifteradio.com
