Conclave

8.5 - This second viewing really improved this movie for me.

My first watch was at a 10:30 pm showing, & the slow & methodical nature of the story undoubtedly lulled me enough that I couldn’t appreciate the artistry put into the production, or the intensity of some of the performances outside of Fiennes.

I still do think it may feel it is making a bigger statement than it is, & some of the conveniences of the story are a little extreme. But production wise I need to give it way more credit.

The costuming & sets are so detailed & precise they make the inner chambers of the conclave feel almost like another character in this story. And the way it lingers in key moments, letting the doors close, the footsteps echo, the breaths rattle; all the things that movies aren’t supposed to show you, drive the tension in special ways.

Very glad I gave it a rewatch.

7.9 - The ending, which I absolutely cannot spoil, will likely make or break this for a lot of people. Especially with the older crowds & awards voters this is likely targeted at.

At its core, it’s a slow burning but well scripted, & tense “political” thriller. Just the idea of a behind the scenes look into one of the world’s most secret & intensive rituals is enough to engage me. It’s beautifully shot, & expertly acted, with Ralph Fiennes giving a performance on par with some of his all time best. But there are times, especially with the ending, that I did find myself sitting back & thinking this is a little silly, & it seems to think it’s either smarter or more self important than it is.

Regardless, depending who you watch with, be prepared for some *conversations.*

A phenomenal film about the true nature of the conclave and the Catholic Church.

My eyes were absolutely glued to the screen during the whole runtime of this film. Whether it’s because of the beautiful cinematography, the superb acting and actors, or the amazingly tense story.

boring and confusing, protagonist does a bad italian accent

Interesting

Interesting premise and very well executed;
The traditions, the clothing, and the settings of the Holy See are all so fascinating, and this film captured that beautifully.
I felt the tension built throughout the story ultimately led nowhere, and the ending felt a little too much like an “…and everybody clapped” type of story, which I felt cheapened its impact.

Fabulous actors and surprisingly taut storytelling