Overview: Conclave follows one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events–selecting a new pope. The Church’s most powerful leaders have gathered from around the world, locked together in the Vatican halls.

Tasked with running this covert process, Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) finds himself at the center of a conspiracy and discovers a secret that could shake the very foundation of The Church.

Also starring Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Isabella Rossellini and directed by Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front).

Blu-ray Verdict: Conclave is a masterclass in quiet intensity, anchored by Ralph Fiennes, who gives an Oscar-worthy performance as a man torn between emotional complexity and the calm resolve needed to guide a high-stakes thriller. Fiennes’ portrayal is captivating, grounding the film with a subtle power that keeps you locked in.

While much of Conclave is simply people talking, every line and every look is loaded with tension, making each conversation feel electric. The emotion behind each actor’s gaze pulls you to the edge of your seat, proving that sometimes words alone can create incredible suspense.

But again, as it really needs to be highlighted, Fiennes delivering a standout performance as Cardinal Lawrence, a reluctant overseer of the papal conclave grappling with crises of faith and responsibility his ability to convey internal conflict and moral complexity, making him a compelling anchor for the film’s exploration of power and faith. The performances of Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini add depth and nuance, while the unpredictable ending leaves a lasting impression.

Berger’s direction and Peter Straughan’s script are complemented by breathtaking cinematography and rich production design, evoking Renaissance art and ecclesiastical beauty. The cinematography captures the claustrophobic beauty of the Vatican, while the score heightens the tension. It balances suspenseful twists with themes of integrity, spirituality, and power struggles.

In closing, visually, the movie is stunning, capturing the grandeur and solemnity of the papal election process. The score is equally impressive, setting an atmosphere of unease that perfectly matches the weight of the story.

Special Features:
SEQUESTERED: INSIDE CONCLAVE – Enter the mysterious world of CONCLAVE with the cast and filmmakers for a behind-the-scenes look at what it took to raise the curtain on one of the most secretive and secluded processes in the world
FEATURE COMMENTARY WITH DIRECTOR EDWARD BERGER – Commentary with director Edward Berger

Based on the critically acclaimed, best-selling book of the same name, CONCLAVE follows one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events – selecting the new pope. Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is tasked with running this covert process after the unexpected death of the beloved Pope. Once the Catholic Church’s most powerful leaders have gathered from around the world and are locked together in the Vatican halls, Lawrence uncovers a trail of deep secrets left in the dead Pope’s wake, secrets which could shake the foundations of the Church.

From the brilliant mind of Edward Berger, director of the 2023 Academy Award® winner for Best International Feature Film All Quiet on the Western Front, CONCLAVE features outstanding performances from an incredible cast including Academy Award® nominees Ralph Fiennes (The Menu, No Time to Die), Stanley Tucci (Spotlight, The Hunger Games), John Lithgow (Cabrini, Killers of the Flower Moon), and Golden Globe® nominee Isabella Rossellini (Julia, Joy).

Conclave [Official Trailer]

Official Website