Conclave

This is one of the best movies I've ever seen. The acting, directing, cinematography, writing- everything is so beautifully done. As a person of faith, this was especially poignant and gave my husband and me so much to think and talk about. I absolutely loved it and bought the book.

Conclave is a dialog driven thriller and a masterclass in filmmaking. The cinematography, in particular, is exquisite. The story is expertly told and has an important message that challenges the viewer. This is high scale art. Edward Berger is proving to be a master of his craft.

Few films manage to capture the complexity of power without slipping into preachiness or empty grandiosity. “Conclave” pulls it off with precision, weaving a narrative that blends suspense, irony, and an unexpected emotional weight. Sean Durkin takes us inside one of the most enigmatic and ritualistic processes in the world: the election of a new Pope. But despite what it may seem, this isn’t really a film about religion—it’s a political thriller in disguise, a study of vanity, intrigue, and morality within a system where every move is calculated and every gesture carries centuries of tradition. The atmosphere is one of imposing solemnity, but beneath the surface, it plays out like a chess match, where each piece has its own weight and ambition.

From the very first scene, we’re thrown into this world steeped in history and mystery. The Pope’s death (Bruno Novelli) sets off a quiet yet intense race for control of the Church. Cardinal Lawrence, played by Ralph Fiennes with his signature restrained elegance, is our guide through this maze of alliances and betrayals. As the Dean of the College of Cardinals, he’s supposed to be just a mediator, someone who ensures the process runs its course without interference. But his conscience and sharp awareness of the risks of making the wrong choice pull him in deeper than he should go. The central question running through the film is the same one that echoes in all great power struggles: what defines a leader? Moral purity? Political skill? Representation? Or just sheer convenience?

Peter Straughan’s screenplay, adapted from Robert Harris’ novel, tackles these questions with intelligence, avoiding easy answers. There’s a fascinating balance between the solemnity of the Conclave and the flawed humanity of its participants. Every vote is a power play, every backroom conversation is a veiled negotiation. John Lithgow’s performance as a candidate whose hunger for power borders on ruthless adds a sharp layer of cynicism, while Lucian Msamati brings a quiet intensity to the role of an African cardinal who represents both hope for change and a threat to the status quo. Stanley Tucci, always brilliant, plays Bellini as the idealist challenging the system, but whose liberal stance is as unsettling as it is inspiring. On the other side of the spectrum, Sergio Castellitto embodies Tedesco, a fierce traditionalist who sees any concession as a sign of decay.

But what makes “Conclave” such an engrossing experience is the way Durkin handles the tone. At times, the film flirts with the suspense of a whodunit, where secrets and revelations shift the power dynamics from one scene to the next. Other times, there’s a subtle, almost biting humor that emerges from the exaggerated solemnity of some rituals and the barely concealed hypocrisy among the cardinals. And at its core, it’s a deeply human drama, where characters wrestle with doubts and weaknesses that make them more than just power-hungry archetypes.

Visually, Stéphane Fontaine’s cinematography does a masterful job of playing with contrasts—the grandeur of the Vatican against the claustrophobia of the Conclave. The deep red of the cardinals’ robes against the opulent gold of the chapels and corridors creates a palette that highlights both the beauty and the rigidity of the system. The camera moves with precision, capturing furtive glances, subtle gestures, and moments of hesitation that speak louder than words. The production design is impeccable, turning every setting into an extension of the film’s central conflict.

What truly elevates “Conclave”, though, is its third act. Just when the game seems decided, the script makes an unexpected move that challenges our perceptions of the characters and the very nature of leadership. The ending is both shocking and inevitable, landing with the precision of a final checkmate. Durkin leaves us with a bittersweet feeling—a sense that while the story may be over, its echoes will linger far beyond the screen.

In a year full of films trying to dissect the inner workings of power, “Conclave” stands out for its subtlety and intelligence. It’s a restrained yet electrifying thriller, proving that the real drama of power isn’t in fiery speeches or epic battles, but in whispers, hesitations, and the choices made behind closed doors.

The power game played out in the church, great acting and script

This movie wants to teach you something and it succeeds. It's partly because of the visuals, but also thanks to the insightful dialogues.

Everyone plays their role exceptionally, but to me Ralph Fiennes was outstanding.

The choice of scenes throughout the entire movie is beautiful and the music is sublime.

But probably what I liked the most is the way the story unfolds. This is not a documentary or a dialogue-based drama (even tho it could qualify a bit like both). It's a mystery movie, to the point it almost feels like it's based on a book written by Agatha Christie.

For anyone who’s ever asked themself the question; “what would it be like if Agatha Christie decided to write about the succession of world leaders instead of murder plots among the bourgeois class?”…here’s your answer.

The cinematography is simply gorgeous as the use of colors. Plot’s not bad, although some parts end up a bit weak. Acting was great, and the ending… well. That’s an interesting take. Not the first movie about a conclave, but definitely worth the time.

Amazing adaptation of the novel. I’m satisfied with how the characters were portrayed and the events and conversations they chose to highlight in the script.

The tension is well built, the dialogs are interesting and the scenery is beautiful. I foresaw part of the ending, but not everything - which i personally think is a good thing: The movie gives you enough to elaborate on your own but is still able to surprise you.
I definitely recommend it. Would watch again. Happy it’s a Golden Globe nominee.