Conclave

Conclave (2024) Movie Synopsis

Conclave (2024) is a gripping Vatican-set political thriller directed by Edward Berger and adapted from the best-selling novel by Robert Harris. The story unfolds in the wake of the Pope’s sudden death, as 118 cardinals from around the world are summoned to Rome to elect a new pontiff behind the closed doors of the Sistine Chapel. At the center of this tense ecclesiastical drama is Cardinal Lomeli—played with quiet intensity by Ralph Fiennes—whose moral compass is tested as he uncovers secrets that could shake the very foundations of the Church.

What begins as a solemn ritual of succession quickly escalates into a riveting chess match of faith, power, and hidden agendas. Critics have praised Conclave for its deft pacing and cerebral tension, comparing it to prestige political dramas like The Crown and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. Berger’s direction, precise and atmospheric, builds suspense not through spectacle, but through silence, glances, and the slow unraveling of deeply buried truths. Fiennes’ restrained yet emotionally layered performance anchors the narrative, while Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow deliver equally compelling turns as rival cardinals.

The film’s strength lies in its masterful blending of theological intrigue with contemporary relevance. As Lomeli navigates internal doubts and rising external pressures, the script—rich in moral ambiguity—poses challenging questions about transparency, tradition, and the weight of spiritual leadership in a fractured modern world. The grandeur of the Vatican is captured with striking cinematography, providing a visual contrast between the timeless rituals of the conclave and the hidden chaos threatening to disrupt them from within.

Conclave stands out as one of 2024’s most thought-provoking thrillers, offering a smart, slow-burn mystery rooted in real-world institutional dynamics. Edward Berger continues his ascent as a director of substance and style, while the film’s ensemble cast elevates a story that balances reverence with revelation. With its rich character work and thematic depth, Conclave is not just a film about selecting a pope—it’s about what faith, loyalty, and truth mean when the stakes are eternal.

Conclave Trigger Breakdown