German director Edward Berger raked up a slew of awards and nominations in 2022 for his World War I epic All Quiet on the Western Front, Quite a daunting task considering the original 1930 version is considered one of the greatest films from classic Hollywood. Berger takes us from the harrowing trenches of the German front line to the pristine hallways of the Vatican in the taut drama Conclave.
The Pope has passed away and the College of Cardinals is convened to elect a new one. Cardinal-Dean Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is called upon to oversee the election as the electing body is sequestered from the outside world. After the first round of votes, four men emerge as the leading candidates. There’s Joseph Tremblay (John Lithgow), a moderate conservative Cardinal from Canada, who seems like a safe bet, except there’s word the Pope asked for Tremblay’s resignation on his deathbed. Cardinal Goffredo Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto) is a fiery traditionalist seeking to undo decades of progress. Cardinal Aldo Bellini (Stanley Tucci) is his opposite. Bellini is outspoken about his liberal views regardless of who it may anger. Cardinal Joshua Adeyemi (Lucian Msmati) of Nigeria has a good chance of becoming history’s first-ever black Pope though Bellini vehemently opposes his homophobic views. Much to his own surprise, Cardinal Lawrence receives a handful of votes.
Throwing many things into question is the arrival of Vincent Benitez (Carlos Diehz), a Cardinal originally from Mexico now stationed in Kabul. His existence was completely unknown to everyone, except the late-Pope. Despite his surprising appearance, Benitez wins over many of his peers with his gentle and humble demeanor.
Conclave is based on the 2016 novel by Robert Harris and adapted for the screen by Peter Straughan, whose previous credits include The Debt and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. Conclave actually has a surprising amount in common with those espionage thrillers. There are a lot of backdoor dealings and politicking going on in Vatican City. As Cardinal Lawrence deals with accusations against Tremblay, he must also investigate gossip involving Adeyimi and a NIgerian nun he hasn’t seen for decades.
It goes without saying that Conclave is packed with high quality performances just by perusing the cast list. A subdued Ralph Fiennes anchors the film alongside a stoic John Lithgow and a charming Stanley Tucci. Isabella Rossellini makes the most of her limited screen time as den mother Sister Agnes. Many of the supporting cast deserve their share of accolades, in particular Lucian Msmati from Game of Thrones and His Dark Materials.
Video/Audio: 9
The video is presented in 1080p with an aspect ratio of 2.39:1. The transfer is flawless with the reds of the cardinals’ vestments really popping. The set design should be counted as a character unto itself. The movie was primarily filmed at the Cinecitta studios in Rome where many sections of the Vatican are replicated, including the Sistine Chapel.
The audio is presented in Dolby TrueHD 7.1. Sound is crisp and clear with focus primarily on dialogue and the orchestral score by Volker Bertelmann.
Extras: 4
Sequestered: Inside Conclave (16:47) is a behind-the-scenes featurette that takes us through casting, costuming, and production design. Some of the actors also discuss taking private tours of the real locations recreated for the film.
The Blu-ray includes a feature commentary track by director Edward Berger, who goes deep into detail about those very same aspects of the production.
Film Value: 8
Obviously, Conclave will ruffle the feathers of those who are overly sensitive about religion. In actuality, the film is very respectful to the Catholic faith while depicting its leadership as flawed human beings. Conclave takes us into a secretive world with the kind of skullduggery and maneuvering you might find on House of Cards or Succession.
