'Conclave' TIFF review: Ralph Fiennes leads riveting papal thriller

Courtesy of Focus Features/TIFF

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Who knew that watching priests and deacons trading gossip and scheming against each other could be so entertaining? At the heart of Edward Berger’s captivating papal thriller “Conclave” is a highly secretive and intense election process that follows the death of a pope. Releasing in the midst of the U.S. presidential election, the parallels and existential themes in “Conclave” will resonate with viewers who are about to cast their own votes, mirroring the choices faced by the characters in this enthralling drama, which is anchored by powerhouse performances from Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci.

Based on the book by Robert Harris and adapted for the screen by Peter Straughan, Fiennes portrays Father Lawrence, whose recent reexamination of his faith is interrupted by the pope’s death. He is thrusted into overseeing the succession vote. The cardinals gather in the Vatican for a political battle to determine the new pope, with each faction—liberal and conservative—arguing their case. As hours stretch into days, secrets are uncovered and lies are exposed as the power-hungry men vie for supremacy.

Will the new pope be the conservative Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto), the progressive Aldo Bellini (Tucci), the disillusioned Father Lawrence, who wishes to leave the priesthood, or will someone make a late surge for the papacy? This question drives “Conclave,” and Berger embraces the theatricality of men sitting in rooms (and even vaping!) with the flair of a multifaceted blockbuster. The film is further elevated by Volker Bertelmann’s dynamic score, which could almost be considered a third lead.

The cast is rounded out by Isabella Rossellini, who delivers a memorable supporting performance as Sister Agnes, an overseer of the nuns who becomes entangled in the cardinal’s machinations. John Lithgow also shines as one of the top contenders for the papal position, while Carlos Diez makes an impression as Cardinal Benitez, whose arrival at the Vatican during a critical moment raises suspicion.

”Conclave” is a skillfully crafted film that takes many surprising turns, culminating in a climactic reveal that will leave audiences astonished. In an era of predictable films, it’s rare to witness a theater collectively gasp in unison. The film explores the tension between the Catholic Church’s desires and the divine reality of human nature, offering a thought-provoking perspective on personal faith and the Church's evolution for future generations.

Grade: A- 

CONCLAVE made its international premiere at the Toronto Film Festival. Focus Features will release it in theaters starting Friday, October 25th.