With its intriguing blend of political drama and religious intrigue, the film Conclave explores the secretive traditions of the Catholic Church, particularly the papal election process. Directed by Edward Berger, and based on Robert Harris' 2016 novel, the film transports audiences deep within the walls of the Vatican, where aged cardinals gather to elect the next pope.
At the heart of the narrative is Ralph Fiennes, who plays Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, designated by his predecessor to oversee the conclave. The stakes are high, and Lawrence struggles with his faith as he navigates through the complex web of rivalries and ambitions among the various candidates. Each cardinal embodies differing ideologies which reflect real-world tensions between tradition and progress.
One of the cardinal players, Tedesco, portrayed by Sergio Castellitto, stands as the staunch traditionalist. Opposed to him is the more liberal Cardinal Bellini, played by Stanley Tucci, who champions modernization within the Church. Their conflicting outlooks not only serve as dramatic points of contention but also embody broader societal debates about the direction of the Church itself.
During this high-stakes election process, the filmmakers' attention to detail creates both palpable tension and authentic drama. The conclave is held at the Sistine Chapel, and the secrecy surrounding the process adds layers of intrigue. Here, the cardinals are sequestered, forbidden from discussing their decisions with anyone outside, which starkly underlines the gravity of their responsibilities.
"We’ve been accustomed to seeing their faces during the election process. The sport of it, if you will, intrigued me," said Harris, reflecting on the imagery of the cardinals during the pope's reveal. This tension, which feels almost claustrophobic, echoes through Lawrence as he grapples with potential corruption within this sacred process.
Notably, the movie captures the heart-pounding moment when the cardinals cast their votes. Each ballot, bearing the Latin inscription Eligo in Summum Pontificem, speaks of the each cardinal's decisive role. For the election, two-thirds is required, and a failed vote results not just in red smoke, but renewed sessions among the often quirky and flawed characters present.
Described as reflective of the times, Conclave doesn’t just present the Catholic Church's internal struggles, but also mirrors the larger battle lines drawn within contemporary society. Director Berger emphasizes the relevance of the film beyond its backdrop of religious tradition, drawing parallels to today's polarizing political climate. "The film is about accepting uncertainty and the inability to have civilized disagreements. It reflects the tribalism we see right now," he explained.
The narrative arc of the film reaches its climax with significant revelations and unexpected twists, culminating with the election of Cardinal Benitez, who shockingly reveals their intersex identity just before being unveiled to the world as Pope Innocent. This staggering twist injects freshness and surprises viewers, raising pressing questions about identity within the rigid confines of religious dogma.
The unconventional choice of Benitez, particularly when framed against the backdrop of traditions steeped for centuries, signals potential shifts not only within the Church but also within broader societal contexts. The film’s conclusion evokes significant contemplation about the future of the Catholic Church, particularly concerning its attitudes toward gender and identity.
For Fiennes, this role presents not only the character’s dilemma but showcases the moral ambiguity often typical of institutional leaders. Throughout the film, Cardinal Lawrence’s wavering commitment grounds him as both the arbiter of the conclave and as a man haunted by his past decisions and faith. The intersection of his personal struggles and the overarching process elevates the narrative from pure drama to something more thought-provoking.
Conclave strikes at the heart of both personal and political narratives, enticing viewers with its layers of intrigue, betrayal, and moral conflict. The film’s exploration of age-old traditions juxtaposed against the interruptions of modern ideology forces audiences to confront the institution's legacy as they ponder what the future holds.
Edward Berger's direction and the film's rich performances illuminate this high-stakes story undeniably connected to today's cultural upheaval. Releasing at the intersect of contemporary relevance and historical tradition, Conclave asks its audience to reflect deeply, leaving us wondering what the future of leadership—religious or political—might look like.
Viewers are bound to leave the theater both entertained and enriched, knowing they've not only witnessed the interplay of religious power within the walls of the Vatican but also explored the nuances of human ambition, belief, and conscience.
