Warning: Spoilers Ahead.
Trigger Warnings: mentions of racism, homophobia, discrimination
Conclave offers a thrilling look at a papal gathering. With a star-studded cast, it dives into the importance of democracy in our modern world. It blends political messages with rich character development.
When a pope passes away, a group of aging cardinals must choose his successor. The film takes us through the beautiful Sistine Chapel, showcasing the Vatican’s grandeur. Leading the group is Thomas Cardinal Lawrence, played by Ralph Fiennes, the hesitant Dean of the College of Cardinals. As the candidates are revealed, secrets and scandals quickly come to light.
Watching these middle-aged clergymen throw insults at each other within the opulent setting of Catholicism is surprisingly entertaining. The film keeps a steady flow, heightening the tension as we wonder: will the next pope continue the old pope’s agenda or take a new direction? One striking moment reminds us that there will never be a flawless pope, referencing a past pope’s childhood involvement with the Hitler Youth as a critique of the Church’s troubling history.
The film cleverly showcases the personal struggles of the cardinals. They often sit with members of their own nationality, revealing divisions among them. We see the downfall of a homophobic arch-conservative who made a poor choice, alongside a racist cardinal advocating for religious war. Even the seemingly progressive candidate gets caught up in the game, accepting a bribe just to keep his position. These elements ground the story in reality.
During a sermon, the Dean remarks that uncertainty and doubt are essential to faith. This theme resonates throughout the film, emphasizing human nature over divine perfection. Lawrence is driven to uncover the truth not only out of loyalty but also from dissatisfaction with his duties. Tension builds as he gathers information in secretive ways, and the film’s score heightens this sense of unease.
Another important character is Vincent Cardinal Benitez, played by Carlos Diehz. Unlike his peers, Benitez, who has dedicated his life to helping others, remains unaffected by power struggles. He faces doubt from fellow cardinals, yet he stands firm, defending compassion and respect, even in the face of prejudice. His words echo a profound understanding of human complexities.
Interestingly, he is the only character who acknowledges the nuns and values their work, contrasting sharply with the male-dominated hierarchy of the Church. The film highlights this disparity, with only one woman given a voice, as she boldly confronts a corrupt cardinal. This illustrates how women are often sidelined within the institution.
Overall, Conclave is a captivating mix of humor and drama—a Catholic twist on films like Mean Girls and The Death of Stalin. It offers an insightful look at human flaws while wrapped in stunning visuals. Though it may not be a precise representation of events in Rome, it aptly warns of how power can corrupt. As one cardinal states, “we serve an ideal, we cannot always be ideal,” showcasing the film’s intriguing contradiction. The storytelling, dynamic characters, and themes of uncertainty make for an enjoyable watch.
