The recently released film Conclave, based on the Robert Harris novel of the same name, attempts to depict the inner workings of the Vatican and the ancient and secretive election of a new Pope (“The most famous man in the world”) and, similar to the Netflix production The Two Popes, is constructed in an epic and cinematic manner drawing on a cast of familiar faces—many tipped for Oscar success and meticulously recreated sets and scenarios.
The film centres on the sudden death of the current Pope and the inner circle of cardinals who, being summoned, witness the breaking of the Piscatory Ring and the declaration of the “Throne of the Pontiff” being now vacant. Three weeks later the conclave gathers for the re-election with divisions and positions now evident and public with Cardinal Bellini being the liberal, Tremblay the moderate, Tedesco the traditionalist, Adeyemi the popular choice and Laurence the dean of the conclave.
The scene is then set for melodrama of the highest order as the conclave begins the process of reviewing and questioning the candidates with a view to electing a new Pope and all that entails. Along the way they encounter allegations, bribes, embezzlement, terrorist attacks, and an unexpected final result all underpinned by the ideology and principles of the Church as it tried to retain its relevance in the twenty-first century, both publicly and internally.
It is fair to say that Harris’ original tightly-plotted novel is given much reverence here, as the film quickly becomes a thriller as much as a more descriptive narrative, dramatising this otherwise private and sacred process with many twists and turns. Much has been made of the setting of the Vatican and its contained and intense atmosphere which does add to the melodrama and gives a stage for its stellar cast to perform. The film boasts Oscar nominations for Ralph Fiennes (Best Actor) and Isabella Rossillini (Best Supporting Actress) among the eight overall nominations at this year’s awards. Furthermore, the film’s dramatic score and its use of visual effects really add to its already intense and intimate setting, and overall really makes it a compelling film to watch.
Printed rating: ★★★★