When Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with leading one of the world's most secretive and ancient events, selecting a new Pope, he finds himself at the center of a conspiracy that could shake the ... Read allWhen Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with leading one of the world's most secretive and ancient events, selecting a new Pope, he finds himself at the center of a conspiracy that could shake the very foundation of the Catholic Church.When Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with leading one of the world's most secretive and ancient events, selecting a new Pope, he finds himself at the center of a conspiracy that could shake the very foundation of the Catholic Church.
- Awards
- 6 wins & 21 nominations
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Did you know
- TriviaMany of the actions Cardinal Lawrence and the rest of the cardinals take during the film's conclave process are true to the Catholic faith and centuries of tradition. After the pope dies, his ring (called the Ring of the Fisherman) is removed and destroyed. The Vatican makes an official announcement that the throne of the Holy See (the governing body of the Catholic church) is vacant. The papal apartment is closed off with crimson ribbon and sealed with a wax papal stamp. The College of Cardinals are sequestered in apartments (called the Domus Sanctae Marthae or Saint Martha's House) to eat and sleep between votes. The windows and doors to the Sistine Chapel, where the actual election takes place and ballots are cast, are darkened, shuttered, and locked to maintain the secrecy of the conclave.
- GoofsIt is stated that Ayendi would be the first African Pope. The Roman Catholic Church has had three African Popes: Victor The First (189-199 AD), Miltiades (also known as Melchiades, 311-314 AD), and Gelasius The First (492-496 AD).
- Quotes
Sister Agnes: Although we sisters are supposed to be invisible, God has nevertheless given us eyes and ears.
- SoundtracksAllegri: Miserere
Performed by Capella Musicale Pontificia Sistina, Massimo Palombella
Courtesy of Deutsche Grammophon GMBH
Under licence from Universal Music Operations Ltd
Plot and Execution: The film follows Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, impeccably portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, as he navigates the labyrinthine politics of papal election within the Vatican's ancient walls. Berger meticulously crafts an atmosphere of suspense where every whispered conversation, every secretive glance, is charged with the gravity of the election's outcome. The plot unfolds with the precision of a Swiss watch, each tick and tock echoing the heartbeat of the Church itself.
Performances: Ralph Fiennes anchors the film with a performance that is both understated and powerful. His portrayal of Cardinal Lawrence is a study in restraint, where every subtle expression conveys the weight of his character's internal and external conflicts. Supporting him, John Lithgow as Cardinal Tremblay offers a masterclass in villainy, weaving charm with cunning so seamlessly that it's impossible not to be captivated by his machinations.
Themes and Symbolism: "Conclave" isn't just about the election of a Pope; it's a microcosm of power, tradition versus modernity, and the human condition. The film tackles these themes with a deft hand, never preaching but always prompting thought. The climax, with its revelation regarding Cardinal Benitez, serves not just as a plot twist but as a profound commentary on identity, acceptance, and the evolving face of global religion.
Cinematography and Score: The visual language of "Conclave" deserves special mention. The confined spaces of the Vatican are shot with a claustrophobic intimacy that mirrors the internal struggles of the characters. The score, haunting and evocative, enhances the sense of isolation and high stakes, complementing the imagery to create a nearly tactile experience of the conclave's tension.
Conclusion: "Conclave" is a tour de force of filmmaking. It's a film that entertains, provokes, and lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. Berger, along with his cast and crew, have not only adapted a book into a film but have elevated it into a critique on power, faith, and human nature. For those who appreciate films that challenge as much as they entertain, "Conclave" is a must-watch, deserving every bit of its 9 out of 10 stars. It's not just a film; it's an experience that invites you into the heart of one of the world's most secretive institutions and leaves you questioning, pondering, and ultimately, admiring the artistry on display.
- Kaidenthompson2004
- Oct 25, 2024
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Details
- Release date
- Countries of origin
- Languages
- Also known as
- Cónclave
- Filming locations
- Production companies
- See more company credits at IMDbPro
Box office
- Budget
- $20,000,000 (estimated)
- Gross US & Canada
- $30,133,845
- Opening weekend US & Canada
- $6,601,995
- Oct 27, 2024
- Gross worldwide
- $34,751,917
- Runtime2 hours
- Color
- Sound mix
- Aspect ratio
- 2.39 : 1