Conclave is based on Robert Harris’s best-selling 2016 novel. It’s a thoughtful, potent, and thematically rich film with fine performances from its stellar cast. However, the movie also needs to go to confession for its murky plot and its narrative reach exceeding its grasp.
Ralph Fiennes stars as a British cardinal for the Catholic Church who gathers other cardinals to decide who will be the new Pope after the current one dies of a heart attack.
Two of the candidates are Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow, who play cardinals with varying liberal and conservative views. Another is a traditionalist (Sergio Castellitto), and the other is an African conservative (Lucian Msamati).
As Fiennes’ Thomas and the other cardinals prepare to vote on the new Pope, he does some investigating and discovers stunning revelations that could potentially discredit the cardinals from taking the mantle.
The movie gives enough screen time for each of these characters to be established and flesh out their motivations. Lithgow’s character is heavily focused on. Tucci’s cardinal is somewhat of a buddy to Fiennes, and at other times, they have a contentious relationship.
In its basic framework, Conclave is shot almost like a documentary in that we get to see how these men operate and try to be steadfast in their faith. The way in which these secrets come out is almost reminiscent of how political opponents use mudslinging during a crucial election, and one can’t help but wonder if the movie’s release was intentionally connected to the recent Presidential runnings.
Sometimes, seeing how these cardinals interact is compelling, but other scenes get weighed down with a lot of dialogue that stays on point. It shouldn’t feel like we’re watching C-SPAN.
Fiennes, Tucci, and Lithgow deliver strong work; their performances are the main reason I’m recommending it.
Conclave is muddled, but its sins can be forgiven.
Grade: B
(Rated PG for thematic material and smoking.)
