Polite conversation dictates that we avoid the topics of religion and politics. Conclave dives head first into both. When the current pope unexpectedly dies, Ralph Fiennes’ Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with managing the ensuing papal conclave. The intrigue, vote buying, backstabbing, and machinations—both political and religious—that almost none of the cardinals are beneath makes for an unflattering portrait of the Church’s hierarchy. At the same time, the melodrama created by fallible human nature serves as an engaging reminder that the Church is an organization run by human beings.
The players in this melodrama are what should be expected: Stanley Tucci’s progressive Cardinal Bellini, John Lithgow’s power-hungry Cardinal Tremblay, Sergio Castellitto’s right-wing Cardinal Tedesco, and Carlos Diehz’s unexpected newcomer Cardinal Benitez. Amidst the clashes of these personalities, Fiennes provides a steadfast rock reminding the other cardinals and the audience of the higher nature of the task before them. While the speeches from each cardinal may follow expected plot points, the actors are clearly having a blast, and the entire cast keeps Conclave riveting.
While the entire movie may be a clash of religion and politics, the conclusion of the papal conclave is when they merge in provocative ways. I will not spoil the final twist, but Cardinal Lawrence—both as audience surrogate and as a servant of Christ—shows a compassionate and Christian way of addressing something outside of his previous considerations. The twist may or may not be predictable, but after two hours of the ugly side of Church hierarchy with moments of grace shining through, the conclusion serves as a triumph of that grace.
Regardless of one’s political or religious leanings, engaging with the people before them as the image of Christ is how we manifest Christ to the world. Throughout all its intrigue and politics, Conclave demonstrates both failures and applications of that principle, and its
depiction of grace serves as a reminder of the words of Jesus: “the law was made for man, not man for the law.” — Evalayn Cogswell (2024) (Catholic Cinephile)
Arts & Faith Lists:
2024 Arts & Faith Ecumenical Jury — #2