I just watched Edward Berger’s Conclave and it is impressive. The film starts with the Pope’s death and follows Cardinal Lawrence, played brilliantly by Ralph Fiennes, as he oversees the election of a new Pope. What I found fascinating was how this seemingly solemn process is filled with secrets, rivalries and backstabbing among the Cardinals. It’s like a high-stakes political drama but with the Vatican as the backdrop, which makes it all the more unique. Honestly, the story’s themes of faith, power and ambition were interesting even if some parts didn’t land perfectly.
Visually, this movie is stunning. Every shot feels meticulously crafted, with rich lighting and intricate details that bring the Vatican to life. The blocking and staging are phenomenal; it’s the kind of movie where you could pause any frame and hang it on your wall. And let’s talk about the music. Volker Bertelmann’s score is absolutely amazing. It’s intense and haunting, perfectly setting the tone for the film’s drama. Together with the gorgeous visuals, it’s a feast for the senses.
The performances are another highlight. Ralph Fiennes is incredible as Cardinal Lawrence, conveying so much with just a look or a subtle shift in his tone. The supporting cast is just as strong! Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow and Sergio Castellitto each bring their characters to life with nuance and charisma. It’s one of those rare films where everyone in the ensemble gets a moment to shine. I just wish the dialogue had been a bit sharper to fully match the calibre of the performances.
Pacing-wise, I’d say it’s mostly solid, though there were moments where I felt the film dragged a little. That said, the twists and turns kept me engaged for the most part. The story builds steadily but the final twist, while bold, didn’t quite hit the mark for me. It felt rushed and could’ve used more buildup to really land. Even so, the journey leading up to it was packed with enough intrigue and drama to keep me hooked.
Smash Hit Score: 7.5/10
Conclave is a visually stunning and well-acted film that offers a gripping look at the politics of faith and power. While it’s not perfect, with pacing and dialogue that could use some tightening, it’s still a fascinating watch.
All film shots taken from TheMovieDB.org
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