Conclave

Edward Berger takes us deep into the shadowy corridors of power and faith in “Conclave,” a gripping drama where ambition, belief, and betrayal collide.

When the Pope dies unexpectedly, the Cardinals convene in the Vatican to elect his successor. But as the doors of the Sistine Chapel close, whispers of scandal and political maneuvering turn the sacred process into a ticking time bomb.

And then comes the stranger - a mysterious last-minute arrival who could change everything.

Edward Berger’s “Conclave” is a thought-provoking cinematic exploration that delves deep into the murky intersection of religion and politics. With its intense atmosphere and a cast - Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini, Sergio Castellitto and John Lithgow - that perfectly embodies the film’s complex characters, it is undoubtedly one of the standout movies of the year. 

Yet, while it masterfully presents its themes and crafts an engaging narrative, it stumbles in its final act with a plot twist that feels more obligatory than earned.

Much like Elio Petri’s Todo Modo, “Conclave” thrives in its ability to paint a claustrophobic portrait of institutional power. Set almost entirely within the Vatican’s labyrinthine halls, the film uses its visual design - dominated by suffocating reds, blacks, and greys - to create a sense of entrapment. The grandeur of the Vatican looms large, dwarfing the characters and serving as a constant reminder of the enormous weight of tradition and faith they carry.

At the heart of the story is the foundational conflict between religion and politics. Berger smartly frames this not as a battle but as a symbiotic relationship, one that shapes and distorts the decisions of those in power. 

This is brought into sharp focus as the characters grapple with whether to adhere to traditional values or embrace progression, all while trying to preserve the fragile equilibrium of the Church. It’s a timely commentary on the push and pull between modernity and orthodoxy, and the film doesn’t shy away from exposing the power dynamics behind the veneer of faith.

The cast is nothing short of brilliant, blending seamlessly into the intrigue-laden plot. Their performances elevate the narrative, infusing it with emotional depth and moral ambiguity. 

The Movie wisely leans into their strengths, allowing the characters to carry the story rather than relying too heavily on exposition. Their interplay is what makes the film’s quieter moments so compelling, as their personal conflicts mirror the broader themes of institutional control and ideological tension.

However, where “Conclave” falters is its ending. The much-hyped plot twist lacks the necessary groundwork, leaving it feeling abrupt and out of step with the rest of the film. 

While the twist aims to shock, its lack of contextual development undermines its impact, making it more of a distraction than a revelation.

Despite its predictability in certain narrative beats, “Conclave” remains smart and provocative. Its greatest strength lies in its willingness to interrogate the structures of power within one of the world’s most secretive institutions. 

Berger asks us to reflect on the delicate balance between faith and politics, tradition and progression, and personal conviction and institutional loyalty.