
Conclave
dir. Edward Berger
79
8 sourcesSynopsis
After the unexpected death of the Pope, Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with managing the covert and ancient ritual of electing a new one. Sequestered in the Vatican with the Catholic Church’s most powerful leaders until the process is complete, Lawrence finds himself at the center of a conspiracy that could lead to its downfall.
Critics consensus
Carrying off papal pulp with immaculate execution and career-highlight work from Ralph Fiennes, Conclave is a godsend for audiences who crave intelligent entertainment.
Audience consensus
Conclave is a thought-provoking papal drama that delivers edge-of-your-seat suspense with a venerable Ralph Fiennes.
What resonated with audiences
'Conclave' is lauded for its strong performances, especially Ralph Fiennes, and its stunning cinematography and production design. The film delves into political intrigue within the Catholic Church, exploring themes of tradition versus modernity and moral complexities. However, it faces criticism for its controversial and divisive ending, deemed unrealistic and politically motivated by many. Some argue this ending undermines earlier strengths, leaving a mixed impression. Concerns also arise about the portrayal of the Church and its characters, with accusations of oversimplification and stereotyping. Despite these issues, 'Conclave' is considered an engaging and thought-provoking film.

Directed byEdward Berger
StarringRalph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Isabella Rossellini, Lucian Msamati, Carlos Diehz
Written byPeter Straughan
CinematographyStéphane Fontaine
EditingNick Emerson
MusicVolker Bertelmann
Conclave
2024 · PG · 2h 0m
Drama, Thriller
After the unexpected death of the Pope, Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with managing the covert and ancient ritual of electing a new one. Sequestered in the Vatican with the Catholic Church’s most powerful leaders until the process is complete, Lawrence finds himself at the center of a conspiracy that could lead to its downfall.
What resonated with audiences
'Conclave' is lauded for its strong performances, especially Ralph Fiennes, and its stunning cinematography and production design. The film delves into political intrigue within the Catholic Church, exploring themes of tradition versus modernity and moral complexities. However, it faces criticism for its controversial and divisive ending, deemed unrealistic and politically motivated by many. Some argue this ending undermines earlier strengths, leaving a mixed impression. Concerns also arise about the portrayal of the Church and its characters, with accusations of oversimplification and stereotyping. Despite these issues, 'Conclave' is considered an engaging and thought-provoking film.
Critics Consensus
Carrying off papal pulp with immaculate execution and career-highlight work from Ralph Fiennes, Conclave is a godsend for audiences who crave intelligent entertainment.
Audience Consensus
Conclave is a thought-provoking papal drama that delivers edge-of-your-seat suspense with a venerable Ralph Fiennes.
