Oscars 2025: "Conclave" review

Graphic by Caitlin Orsino

“Conclave,” which is based on Robert Harris’ 2016 novel of the same name, is a political thriller film directed by Edward Berger and written by Peter Straughan. The main cast consists of Ralph Fiennes, John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini. The film’s other notable contributors are cinematographer Stéphane Fontaine, editor Nick Emerson, composer Volker Bertelmann, costume designer Lisy Christl, and production designer Suzie Davies.

In “Conclave,” the pope dies of a heart attack, prompting the College of Cardinals to assemble to appoint his replacement. The Dean of the College of Cardinals, Thomas Lawrence of the United Kingdom (Fiennes) oversees the proceedings. The pope hopefuls include Aldo Bellini of the United States (Tucci), Joshua Adeyemi of Nigeria (Lucian Msmati), Joseph Tremblay of Canada, Goffredo Tedesco of Italy (Sergio Castellitto), and a late entry in Vincent Benitez of Kabul (Carlos Diehz), and even Cardinal Lawrence, much to his chagrin—all of whom have vastly different political ideologies. 

Throughout the convention, Cardinal Lawrence uncovers innumerable scandals, each of which becomes known one way or another and shakes up the race. Towards the end of the film, after the dust has settled, a candidate is voted to be pope by obtaining the required two-thirds majority.

So, “Conclave” conceptually may sound boring or uninteresting. Yes, it certainly is Oscar-y and “grown-up.” Not to mention, most would consider it to be a slow-burn film.

However, trust me when I tell you that “Conclave” is truly intriguing. Trust me when I tell you that it is worth your time. If you are a fan of twists and turns, technical prowess in terms of filmmaking, and Lord Voldemort himself, Ralph Fiennes—I mean, it is hard not to be—I can assure you that you will enjoy “Conclave.” 

Following Fiennes’ Cardinal Lawrence, who all the while is undergoing his own crisis of faith, as he uncovers bombshell after bombshell, racking your brain trying to figure out how events will be resolved, is gripping. Thanks to its cinematography, costume design, production design, and sound, “Conclave” is also wholly immersive. While watching it, you feel like you have been transported to Vatican City. I mentioned Ralph Fiennes, but the supporting players are all remarkable.

“Conclave” proved itself to be something of an award show darling the past few weeks. At the Screen Actors Guild Awards, it won the award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. At the British Academy Film Awards, “Conclave” had itself a night, securing Best Film, Outstanding British Film, Adapted Screenplay, and Editing wins. At this year’s Academy Awards, “Conclave” garnered eight nominations: Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Original Score, Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, and Best Film Editing. Of those eight nominations, Peter Straughan emerged victorious for his adapted screenplay.

You can stream “Conclave” on Peacock, as well as digitally rent or buy it for a few bucks from the usual suspects—Prime Video, Apple TV, Fandango at Home, Google Play, YouTube, etc. Check it out!