The 2024 film Conclave directed by Edward Berger offers a thrilling exploration into one of the world’s most secretive and ancient processes—the election of a new Pope. Set against the backdrop of the Catholic Church’s papal conclave, this gripping drama and thriller delve into a world where power, religion, and politics intersect. With a stellar cast led by Ralph Fiennes, Jacek Koman, and Lucian Msamati, Conclave promises a tale that challenges not only religious beliefs but the very foundation of the Church itself.

In this review, we will explore various aspects of the film, including its plot, performances, cinematography, soundtrack, and overall impact. Conclave touches upon themes of secrecy, power struggles, and the moral complexities of the Church’s inner workings, making it an engaging watch for those interested in religious dramas and political thrillers.

Plot Overview

Conclave revolves around Cardinal Lawrence, who finds himself at the center of a high-stakes situation when he is entrusted with the responsibility of overseeing the selection of the new Pope. This process, known as the papal conclave, is one of the oldest and most secretive rituals in the world. Cardinal Lawrence, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, is a seasoned figure within the Church, yet he finds himself unprepared for the shocking conspiracies and complex power dynamics that come to light during this tense period.

As the conclave unfolds, Cardinal Lawrence uncovers a conspiracy that threatens the very foundation of the Catholic Church. It becomes evident that the election of the new Pope is not just about religious faith but is entangled with political maneuvering, corruption, and hidden agendas. The film takes viewers on a suspenseful journey through the dark corners of the Vatican, where trust is scarce, and betrayal is rampant.

This gripping storyline is heightened by the intense atmosphere and careful attention to historical detail, making the world of Conclave feel both authentic and ominous.

Themes and Storyline Analysis

At the core of Conclave is the exploration of power, secrecy, and corruption. The film tackles these themes through its portrayal of the papal conclave—a process that is designed to be a spiritual and sacred ritual but is also a battleground for power among the cardinals. The story makes it clear that the election of the Pope is as much about political maneuvering and alliances as it is about faith and spirituality.

Cardinal Lawrence, while appearing as a devout man of faith, becomes an unlikely protagonist who is caught in the web of the Church’s darker elements. As he grapples with the weight of his responsibility, Lawrence is forced to confront not only his own moral beliefs but the very institution he has devoted his life to. His character arc is complex, as he moves from being a bystander to an active participant in a conspiracy that could topple the Church.

The film also explores the concept of trust. In an environment where loyalty can be easily bought or sold, the idea of finding allies becomes central to the narrative. Conclave paints a portrait of an institution riddled with distrust, where even the most respected figures can hide secrets or manipulate situations for personal gain.

The tension within the conclave is palpable, and the audience is taken on an emotional rollercoaster as the cardinals engage in complex negotiations, each one trying to secure their own place in the future of the Church.

Direction and Cinematic Style

Edward Berger, known for his ability to create tense and emotionally charged narratives, brings his unique vision to Conclave. His direction ensures that the film is not only a political thriller but also a study of human nature, ambition, and corruption. The pacing of the film is slow yet deliberate, which mirrors the slow and methodical nature of the conclave itself.

The film’s visual style complements its thematic elements. The cinematography by Florian Hoffmeister is stark and moody, using shadows and dim lighting to evoke a sense of secrecy and claustrophobia. The interiors of the Vatican, where most of the film takes place, are captured with an almost haunting reverence. The use of dark tones and tight shots emphasizes the film’s tone of unease and suspicion, and the audience is constantly reminded that the walls of the Vatican hide many secrets.

The decision to use HDCAM 720p for the video quality is a notable one, as it gives the film a raw, grainy texture that enhances the feeling of realism and urgency. This aesthetic choice helps to ground the film in a tangible world while still maintaining a sense of mystery and tension.

Performances

The performances in Conclave are one of the film’s strongest aspects. Ralph Fiennes, known for his versatility and depth, delivers a remarkable portrayal of Cardinal Lawrence. His character is multi-dimensional, embodying both the moral certainty of a religious leader and the doubts and insecurities of a man who realizes the weight of his responsibility. Fiennes masterfully captures the internal struggle of Lawrence, who is torn between his devotion to the Church and the realization that the institution he serves is deeply flawed.

Jacek Koman and Lucian Msamati also give strong performances as key figures in the conclave. Koman, in particular, brings a sense of quiet authority to his role, embodying a character who seems calm on the surface but harbors dark ambitions underneath. Msamati’s character adds an interesting layer to the film, providing a voice of reason amidst the chaos, though even he is not beyond the reach of the manipulations at play.

The supporting cast also shines, with each actor adding depth and nuance to their respective roles. The ensemble work in Conclave is impressive, as each character contributes to the overall tension and complexity of the narrative. There are no true “villains” in the traditional sense, but rather a collection of individuals who, in their own way, are just trying to navigate the dangerous waters of the Church’s politics.

Language and Cultural Context

One of the most unique aspects of Conclave is its use of Bengali as the primary language, with voice-over in English. This choice allows the film to appeal to a broader international audience while still maintaining its cultural authenticity. The use of Bengali is not just a stylistic choice but also contributes to the film’s sense of global perspective. The film presents the papal conclave not only as a Catholic ritual but as a global event with political and religious ramifications that extend far beyond the Vatican.

The mix of Bengali and English adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, reflecting the diverse nature of the characters involved. It also enhances the immersion, as it emphasizes the global scope of the events depicted in the film, showing that the election of a Pope has far-reaching consequences beyond the confines of the Vatican.

Cinematic Influence and Comparisons

Conclave invites comparisons to other films that explore religious institutions and power dynamics. One can draw parallels between Conclave and films such as The Two Popes (2019) and Angels & Demons (2009), both of which also deal with the inner workings of the Vatican. However, Conclave stands apart in its focus on the political thriller aspect, highlighting the behind-the-scenes manipulation that occurs during such a pivotal event.

The film’s atmosphere and tone might also evoke memories of classics like The Godfather and House of Cards, where political maneuvering and power struggles take center stage. The difference lies in the context—while The Godfather is about organized crime and House of Cards about American politics, Conclave grounds its conflict within the religious world, making the stakes feel both personal and universally significant.

Conclusion

Conclave (2024) is a masterful blend of drama, thriller, and political intrigue, offering a unique look into one of the world’s most secretive rituals. Edward Berger’s direction, combined with stellar performances from Ralph Fiennes, Jacek Koman, and Lucian Msamati, creates a compelling narrative that explores the power struggles, conspiracies, and moral dilemmas within the Catholic Church.

With its slow-burn tension, atmospheric cinematography, and deeply human characters, Conclave is a film that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The use of Bengali as the primary language and the film’s international scope only serve to broaden its appeal, making it a significant addition to the genre of political thrillers.