Conclave

It’s more than a little frustrating when a film seemingly has all of the elements needed to make it work except the one that’s most crucial, the one that enables a production to brilliantly succeed or doom it to failure – the story. Such is the case with director Edward Berger’s latest, the much-anticipated, much-celebrated drama about the convening of a papal conclave to select a new pope. From a technical standpoint, the filmmaker has pulled together everything that should make this an epic pi…

FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://movieswetextedabout.com/conclave-review-a-riveting-vatican-thriller-destined-for-year-end-accolades/ "Conclave surpasses expectations for a mystery-thriller set in the Vatican's inner sanctum. It's a focused exploration of characters shaped by religious convictions and personal ambitions, offering a fascinating reflection on morality, faith, and power. Edward Berger's technically flawless direction guides a brilliant cast through a narrative that never un…

r96sk

November 29, 2024

8/10

<em>'Conclave'</em> has a lot to enjoy about it, even if it is slightly overlong. The performances are its biggest strength, which is an element that is critical to get correct for talky films like this - and thankfully this one does get it right. Ralph Fiennes is terrific, you know what you're going to get from Fiennes and I mean that entirely positively. John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci, Lucian Msamati and Sergio Castellitto merit praise too. I love the score, while the cinematography is sple…

CinemaSerf

December 3, 2024

7/10

When the Pope dies, it falls to the Dean of the College of Cardinals, "Cardinal Lawrence" (Ralph Fiennes) to organise the conclave that will elect his successor. His own personal preference is for the liberal "Bellini" (Stanley Tucci) but there is also plenty of support elsewhere. "Adeyami" (Lucian Msamati) could be the first pontiff from Africa; "Tremblay" (John Lithgow) is an ambitious American and "Tedesco" (Sergio Castellitto) the formidable and ultra-conservative candidate. As they are all …

Conclave is a film for those willing to immerse themselves fully. It's a slow-burning, almost hypnotic narrative where every word, every pause holds weight. There's no attempt to shock or force drama here. This is a measured, deeply atmospheric experience. Ralph Fiennes delivers one of the finest performances of his career. His character is like a wall with cracks—you peer into them and sense the storm brewing behind. His restraint is captivating, and when he finally raises his voice, it feel…

The ending was absolutely ridiculous, clearly designed to cater to a modern audience while pushing propaganda. Although I'm not Catholic, I find it insulting that an otherwise enjoyable film was overshadowed by this audacious shift in tone.

I am a simple man good movie