Directed by Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front), Conclave is an adaptation of the bestselling novel by Robert Harris. The film fits within the realm of political thrillers, taking place deep inside the Vatican. Led by Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini, it was released in theaters on December 4, 2024, and won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay (Peter Straughan) in 2025. It will be available on Netflix starting March 7, 2026.
Following the sudden death of the Pope, Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with overseeing the conclave—a secretive process in which the cardinals retreat to choose a new leader. Behind closed doors, the solemn rituals coexist with more earthly power struggles: fragile alliances, rivalries, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering, all under the relentless pressure of an unforgiving timetable.
As the votes unfold, Lawrence realizes that a secret left behind by the deceased could tip the election in an unexpected direction. Amid risky revelations and behind-the-scenes negotiations, time becomes the enemy: before the white smoke appears, he must uncover what the institution has chosen to keep hidden.
Peter Straughan's screenplay is based on Robert Harris's novel from 2016, enriched by the author's research on the 2013 conclave. Filming took place in Rome, primarily at Cinecittà Studios: due to restrictions on access to the Vatican, iconic locations like the Sistine Chapel and Santa Marta Residence were recreated on set. Berger collaborated closely with editor Nick Emerson to craft the editing and sound design, intentionally varying voting sequences—repetitive by nature but crucial for building dramatic tension.
Edward Berger teams up once again with composer Volker Bertelmann, who previously won an Oscar for All Quiet on the Western Front. This time, the score features unique instrumental textures, including the distinctive sound of the Cristal Baschet. Beyond snagging the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay, the film had a big impact on the 2025 awards season, earning multiple nominations (editing, production design, costumes, music, acting) and clinching awards at the BAFTAs.
Our Review of Conclave:
In Conclave, Edward Berger, the director of All Quiet on the Western Front, delivers a gripping political thriller set within the secretive and historically charged walls of Vatican City. Based on the novel of the same name by Robert Harris, the film plunges us into the heart of the papal election, a sacred process where political rivalries and personal ambitions clash amid questions of faith. Led by a charismatic Ralph Fiennes portraying Cardinal Lawrence, the film thoughtfully explores power dynamics and internal conflicts within a Catholic Church in search of redemption and modernity.
The story begins with a solemn announcement: "The Holy See is vacant." These words signal the death of the pope and mark the start of a conclave where cardinals gather to choose his successor. Quickly, viewers realize that beneath the apparent calm of the debates, a silent war of manipulations and ambitions brews. Berger’s direction heightens this contrast: contemplative shots linger in the stark corridors of Vatican while sharp, revealing dialogues expose underlying tensions and hypocrisies.
At the core is Cardinal Lawrence, played with impeccable nuance by Ralph Fiennes, embodying intelligence and moral integrity amid a corrupt system. Tasked with organizing the election, he strives to maintain order while navigating fragile alliances and startling revelations—particularly involving Cardinal Bellini (John Lithgow) and young Cardinal Benitez (Luis Gnecco). Tensions reach a breaking point when a secret about Benitez comes to light, challenging centuries of dogma.
An impactful presence is Isabella Rossellini’s portrayal of a nun, who quietly contributes profound insights behind the scenes at the conclave. Her presence provides unexpected glimpses into the personality of the late pope and the state of the Church, shifting key debates at pivotal moments.
Conclave exceeds a mere political thriller by delving into profound themes like faith, modernity, and internal contradictions within the Church. Through striking dialogues, the film highlights the gap between spiritual ideals and political realities. One of the most memorable lines, spoken by Cardinal Lawrence, encapsulates this tension: "The most dangerous men are those who want to be pope." This captures how the papal election is less a divine quest than a human confrontation.
The film doesn't shy away from confronting the Church with its own demons. Through Cardinal Tedesco, a strict conservative, Berger explores the ongoing internal battles between progressives and traditionalists over issues such as homosexuality and sexual scandals. These debates culminate in the revelation of Benitez’s intersex identity, a bold narrative choice that invites reflection on inclusivity and how the Church might embrace diversity without abandoning its core doctrines.
Berger demonstrates masterful atmosphere-building. The soundtrack, both urgent and understated, fosters underlying tension, while exquisite cinematography elevates the Vatican's architecture, imbuing the film with a nearly sacred aura. The scenes depicting votes in the Sistine Chapel, illuminated by candlelight, are visually and emotionally intense, reminding us of the spiritual stakes behind this political process.
However, this slow, contemplative pace may weigh on some viewers. Fans expecting a fast-paced thriller might find the methodical narrative development a bit challenging, as the film takes time to flesh out character and conflict depth. Some critics have likened Conclave to a soap opera, a stylistic choice staying true to the source material that allows full immersion into the intrigue surrounding the papal succession.
The cast is one of the film’s strengths. Ralph Fiennes portrays a figure both wise and vulnerable—torn between faith and conscience. Isabella Rossellini’s compelling role as Sister Agnes adds a mysterious touch, while John Lithgow and Luis Gnecco bring complexity to their respective characters. Each actor enriches the ensemble, making this gallery of cardinals a credible reflection of human and spiritual struggles.
More than a historical reenactment or a literary adaptation, Conclave engages with contemporary issues facing the Church. By tackling themes such as gender identity, acceptance of homosexuality, and scandal management, the film presents a church in transformation—one forced to evolve to stay relevant. Benitez’s remark, "I would have sinned even more by changing God's work than by leaving my body as it is," exemplifies this desire to reconcile faith with human realities.
Despite its strengths, Conclave isn't without flaws. Some secondary storylines lack depth—such as Cardinal Tedesco’s motives or the relationship nuances between the nun (Rossellini) and the institution. Additionally, while the ending is bold and opens intriguing possibilities, it may come across as abrupt for those hoping for more conclusive resolution.
Overall, Conclave stands out as a dense, intelligent political thriller anchored by refined direction and strong performances. Edward Berger captures the internal struggles of the Vatican while offering a relevant, contemporary reflection on faith and power. Its contemplative pace and some narrative arcs may challenge certain audiences, but the film ultimately provides a daring, mystic-political tapestry that offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the Catholic Church.
Conclave
Film | 2024
In theaters: December 4, 2024
available on Netflix from March 7, 2026
Thriller | Duration: 2h00
Directed by Edward Berger | Starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini
Original title: Conclave
Country: United States
Between a ceremonial showdown and a power struggle, Conclave weaves a meticulous suspense built on the precision of its rituals and a steady flow of revelations that reshape the stakes of the election. The Oscar for adapted screenplay highlights the strength of this adaptation, which explores the tension between spiritual authority and political influence without offering easy answers.
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