25/41
Once again greetings from the darkness
Narrative
According to Robert Harris' in 2016 novel The Conclave.. According to Robert Harris' in 2016 the novel Conclave.. Sister Agnes: Although we sisters are supposed to be invisible, yet God has given us eyes and ears.. It seems like it’s been a while since we’ve had a good old serious, suspenseful, “big” one; a drama film starring big movie stars. Well, director Edward Berger, fresh off his Oscar-winning ALL QUIET ON THE WESTERN FRONT (2022), delivers in his latest film. Writer Peter Straughan (TINKER TAILOR SOLDIER SPY, 2011) adapted the 2016 Robert Harris’ novel, and the result is a welcome audience turnout that could garner some Oscar attention.
Ralph Fiennes delivers what is his best performance yet
And that’s saying something for a highly-respected actor who previously starred in films like SCHINDLER’S LIST (1993), THE PERMANENT GARDNER (2005), BRUGES (2008), BIGGER SPLASH (2018). ), and MENU (2022). His impressive career is only enhanced by this latest role as Cardinal Lawrence, who has the heavy burden of helping the titular conclave tasked with electing the new pope. As the movie opens, the beloved Pope has just passed… and as they say, “let the games begin.” Of course, these games involve political maneuvering and power struggles and behind-the-scenes promises. Director Berger chooses to show us very little actual negotiation, instead giving us various iterations of loyalty during each secret (of course) vote.
keep your 'place' and has a significant impact on the process
Within the confined walls of Vatican City and the Sistine Chapel, Cardinal Lawrence' s time is mostly spent researching advice, chastising others for their behavior, and dealing with the massive egos of the few he considers (including himself). Stanley Tucci plays Cardinal Bellini, who pretends he doesn’t want the job and the campaign is “progressive”; the voice the church needs now. John Lithgow is Cardinal Tremblay, one of the most determinedly ambitious men who may or may not purposefully undermine the work of another. Either way, Lucian Msmuati Cardinal Adivemi is a victim of Tremblay’s actions. Sergio Castellitto’s portrayal of Cardinal Tedesco is the most outspoken in his desire to return the church to the old traditions (the Latin Mass forever!) which he sees as appropriate. Bryan F O’Byrne plays O’Malley, Lawrence’s assistant, but despite all these men, Isabella Rossellini as Sister Agnes manages to shoot (figurative) fire out of her eyes.
She is stunning and memorable in her limited role
A big surprise arrives early on – Cardinal Benitez (Carlos Diehz) of Kabul, who was the last appointee of the previous pope and unknown to the others. As a novel, it can be a real page-turner, but the film never rushes from one moment to the next. The tension builds with each revelation and the stained gown and secret plot. While the film barely delves into the church’s years-long sex-abuse scandal, there are plenty of twists and turns that keep us on our toes as the cardinals are sequestered. It’s interesting to see how cinematographer Stephane Fontaine keeps things visually interesting in a confined environment filled with characters who aren’t allowed anywhere else. Another aspect I really appreciated was the unusual musical score by Oscar winner Volker Bertelmann.
Symmetry with the US
These are the types of films that often feature dominant music for ‘enhancement’; Tensions, but Bertelmann’s notes are effective punches at the right time. These men of God are messing up the process of electing a new leader. The importance of mission and tradition pales in comparison to ego and self-interest.