Ralph Fiennes graced us yet again on the big screen with a simply divine performance in Edward Berger’s ‘Conclave’, released October 25, 2024.

The movie sees Fiennes, as Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, somberly lead a group of cardinals to chirp over who shall sit on the proverbial golden throne next, following the tumultuous process of pope-hood. It feels all too fitting that this film would be released just a few months before the late Pope Francis’ unfortunate death—a bit of a silver lining, in fact, because, this time, the public actually knows what any of this papal business means.

The film is so accurate that I felt at times as though I were watching a documentary—the scandals and chittering gossip felt ironic in such a holy environment. ‘Conclave’ beautifully captures the juvenile pettiness

accompanied by the prospect of power: a classic  trope that successfully had me taking sides and rooting for “the good guys”.

Suspenseful, witty, and insightf-

ully touching, this film has it all, inc-

luding a shocking twist that threw even my mother, an avid plot guesser (whose successrate in predicting plots is impressively high).

One aspect that is done extremely well is the juxtaposition of the ancientness of Catholicism against the brutalism of the modern world. Countless shots of bright red capes billowing against harsh grey concrete are striking and almost dystopian; the cinematography is stunning.

A large part of the film’s charm comes from Fiennes’ performance, which simply steals the show. His cadence drips with tension—even in the way he carries himself with that sweeping, and severe yet weary shuffle. Despite his character’s harshness, his conviction is true. One of my favorite scenes involves an endearing moment with a turtle, which reflects his years of acting experience and brilliance all in one scene.

Fiennes has invented yet another memorable character for his fans, and the film history books. If there is one film you must watch this year, make it ‘Conclave’, in all its enthralling charm.