The movie Conclave, based on Robert Harris’s bestselling novel, is one of the top contenders for the 2025 Oscars. Directed by Edward Berger, acclaimed for his work on All Quiet on the Western Front, the film delves into the secretive world of the papal election, an event steeped in symbolism, tradition, and secrecy. The story begins with the unexpected death of the Pope, prompting 118 cardinals to convene in a secluded conclave at the Vatican. Amid tensions, political alliances, and unveiled mysteries, the audience is drawn into the heart of the Church’s power dynamics and spirituality.
The plot follows Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, played by Ralph Fiennes, as he leads the conclave. Surrounding him are Cardinals Aldo Bellini (Stanley Tucci), Goffredo Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto), and Jacob Tremblay (John Lithgow), who collectively represent clashing perspectives on the Church’s future. The arrival of the enigmatic Cardinal Vincent Benitez (Carlos Diehz) introduces layers of suspense and intrigue to the narrative. The film, which premieres in Brazilian cinemas on January 23, has already been widely praised for its engaging and critical approach.
With eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Actor, Conclave is one of the most talked-about productions of the year. The awards ceremony, set for March 2, 2025, promises to celebrate a competitive year for cinema, with titles like Emilia Pérez and The Brutalist also in the running. But what makes Conclave particularly special is its ability to merge history, religion, and politics into a compelling narrative.
The fascinating structure of the papal conclave
The word “conclave” derives from the Latin cum clave, meaning “with a key,” referencing the complete isolation that defines the papal election process. This ancient rite of the Catholic Church carries profound historical weight, with records dating back centuries. After the death or resignation of a Pope, eligible cardinals—generally under 80 years of age—are summoned to the Vatican. During the conclave, they are isolated from the outside world, with no access to communication, to ensure complete confidentiality.
The Sistine Chapel, where the voting takes place, is sealed after the cardinals enter, and the ritual includes oaths of secrecy and moments of prayer. In the film, these elements are portrayed with remarkable accuracy, emphasizing the solemnity and drama of the event. The setting also features the iconic chimney signaling the vote results: black smoke means no candidate has secured a two-thirds majority, while white smoke announces the election of the new Pope.
The last real-life conclave occurred in 2013, when Argentine Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected Pope Francis. At that time, 115 cardinals participated in a process that lasted only two days. By contrast, some historical elections took months or even years, reflecting intense conflicts of interest and divisions within the Church.
A stellar cast and outstanding performances
Ralph Fiennes, known for iconic roles in The English Patient and Harry Potter, delivers a masterful performance as Cardinal Lawrence, balancing authority and vulnerability. Alongside him, Stanley Tucci shines as the progressive Cardinal Bellini, while Sergio Castellitto and John Lithgow add depth to their portrayals. Carlos Diehz’s portrayal of the mysterious Cardinal Benitez surprises with a striking performance that heightens the tension of the narrative.
Director Edward Berger, who earned critical acclaim for his sensitive portrayal of human conflict in All Quiet on the Western Front, brings a similar approach to Conclave. The production also features a soundtrack by Hauschka, adding emotional and immersive layers to the film.
Critically acclaimed and vying for Oscar glory
Since its early screenings, Conclave has garnered critical acclaim. Renowned publications have praised its engaging narrative and the powerful performances of its cast. Ralph Fiennes, in particular, has been highlighted as a frontrunner for the Best Actor Oscar, with many lauding his ability to capture the emotional complexity of his character. Edward Berger’s direction has also been widely celebrated, particularly for his skill in balancing tension and introspection.
The film’s faithful portrayal of the conclave has also drawn attention, requiring meticulous research and expert consultation. While some critics have accused the film of harboring anti-religious bias, many argue that it explores the nuances of faith and power in a respectful and thought-provoking manner.
Curiosities and production details
- The Sistine Chapel was meticulously recreated on set, with attention to historical and artistic details.
- During production, the cast attended workshops on Catholic rituals to better understand their characters’ dynamics.
- The plot draws from historical events and the fictional narrative of Robert Harris’s novel, which delves into ethical and political issues within the Church.
The cultural impact of Conclave
Beyond being a cinematic work, Conclave provokes deep reflections on leadership, morality, and the tensions between tradition and modernity. At a time when religious institutions face challenges of relevance and credibility, the film sheds light on internal and external debates that shape their trajectory.
The film’s relevance is heightened by its contemporary context. In times of social and religious crises, the story addresses the struggle to balance spiritual values with modern needs. In this sense, Conclave transcends its plot, becoming an invitation to reflect on the role of institutions in modern life.
Historical highlights of conclaves
- The conclave of 1268-1271, known as the longest in history, lasted nearly three years before Pope Gregory X was elected.
- In 1417, the conclave that elected Pope Martin V ended the Western Schism, reuniting the Church.
- The conclave of 2013, which led to the election of Pope Francis, was notable for the quick consensus among cardinals.
Statistics and data on the papal conclave
- Since 1059, more than 200 conclaves have taken place, solidifying traditions and reforming processes over the centuries.
- On average, modern conclaves last between 2 and 5 days, reflecting greater efficiency in decision-making.
- The Catholic Church has over 1.3 billion followers worldwide, with each conclave profoundly impacting these communities.
The challenges of depicting such an iconic event
Bringing the conclave to the screen required a blend of authenticity and creative adaptation. From the recreation of liturgical garments to the political debates among cardinals, the film aims to capture the essence of the event without sacrificing the necessary drama for cinema. This approach makes Conclave a unique experience, capable of entertaining and educating audiences simultaneously.
The anticipation for the Oscars ceremony
With eight nominations, Conclave stands as one of the main contenders at the Oscars. This year’s ceremony, scheduled for March 2, will be closely watched by movie enthusiasts and critics alike. If Ralph Fiennes and Edward Berger win Best Actor and Best Director, respectively, it will mark a well-deserved recognition of the careful and innovative work that defined the production.
