Conclave Review: The Vatican Has Never Looked This Suspenseful

With Pope Francis’ demise making global headlines, the Vatican is now ground zero for power, faith, and secrecy. It’s a moment of transition and tension—and a perfect reason to watch Conclave, the 2024 film that pulls back the curtain on what really happens behind the locked doors of the Sistine Chapel, before the white smoke rises.

Edward Berger, in his English-language debut, transforms what could have been a grim procedural about papal elections into a riveting political thriller that manages to be both thought-provoking and wildly entertaining. Based on Robert Harris’s 2016 novel, the film invites us into the secretive world of cardinal politics following the unexpected death of the Pope.

Ralph Fiennes stars as Cardinal Lawrence, the dean of the College of Cardinals tasked with overseeing the election of a new pontiff. Fiennes delivers a masterclass in deliberate acting here, portraying a man burdened by responsibility while wrestling with his own crisis of faith. He can’t pray anymore, yet he must guide the holiest of processes.

Meanwhile, the conclave itself unfolds like a precarious political theater, with cardinals from across the world engaging in hushed alliances and devious plots. A lot of the captivating drama is thanks to the brilliant cast, which comprises a mix of veteran actors and up-and-coming names.

Stanley Tucci is spectacular as the progressive Cardinal Bellini, while Sergio Castellitto chews every scene he appears in as the traditionally minded Cardinal Tedesco. John Lithgow, who is no stranger to dramatic roles, brings calculating charm to Cardinal Tremblay, and Lucian Msamati stands out as Cardinal Adeyemi, who could potentially become the Church’s first Black pope.

Though much of the cast is made up of male characters, Isabella Rossellini delivers a grounding warmth as Sister Agnes, who is initially introduced as a nun assistant but evolves into one of the most morally centered characters. Alongside her is Carlos Diehz, who makes a memorable impression as the mysterious Cardinal Benitez, whose arrival upends the political calculus of the conclave.

Casting aside, what elevates Conclave beyond mere Vatican intrigue is Berger’s skillful direction. Fresh off his success with 2022’s All Quiet on the Western Front, he creates a visual language that captures both the opulence of Vatican traditions and the claustrophobic tension of men locked away from the world making decisions that will impact millions.

Squid Game could take a page from Conclave about how to implement voting sequences. Berger does a great job turning what could be a tedious process in the Sistine Chapel into moments of genuine suspense as allegiances shift with each ballot.

Throughout the film, the screenplay balances reverence for Catholic ritual with unflinching examination of the Church’s contradictions. As Lawrence investigates various improprieties and secrets among the candidates, Conclave explores themes of tradition versus progress, personal ambition versus spiritual calling, and the gap between institutional religion and genuine faith.

The film builds toward several shocking revelations and a finale that provoked a lot of mixed reactions from audiences, especially on online forums. Without spoiling the conclusion, it raises provocative questions about the Catholic Church’s future and its ability to adapt to a changing world.

Conclave does occasionally falter in its portrayal of spiritual faith itself. For a film set entirely in the Vatican, genuine expressions of religious devotion are curiously sparse among these principals of the Church. Most characters seem more motivated by political considerations than divine guidance.

Still, Conclave succeeds brilliantly as both thoughtful drama and suspenseful entertainment. It’s the rare film that respects its audience’s intelligence while delivering genuine surprises. With a combination of excellent performances, Berger’s confident direction, and a screenplay that balances juicy twists with meaningful examination of faith and power, Conclave is one of 2024’s most compelling dramas.

If the upcoming pope elections aren’t reason enough to watch, then watch Conclave for Ralph Fiennes’ quietly commanding performance. As Cardinal Lawrence, he anchors the film with a blend of restraint and inner turmoil, portraying a man who starts as a dutiful administrator and ends up facing choices that could change the Church itself. It’s a performance of rare depth—measured, moving, and utterly magnetic.