Released in late 2024, Conclave is a political thriller film directed by Edward Berger. Adapted from Robert Harris’s 2016 novel, the film dives deep into the intense and secretive process of selecting a new pope, uncovering the hidden power dynamics and conflicts among the Vatican’s highest-ranking cardinals. The compelling narrative features some of Hollywood’s most talented actors, delivering strong performances under the direction of Berger, who is known for his work in films such as All Quiet on the Western Front. This article will provide an in-depth look at the film’s details, including a breakdown of its cast, production, box office performance, and the latest news surrounding it.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Film Title | Conclave |
| Director | Edward Berger |
| Screenwriter | Peter Straughan |
| Based On | Conclave (2016 Novel) by Robert Harris |
| Release Date | October 25, 2024 (USA), November 29, 2024 (UK) |
| Runtime | 120 minutes |
| Language | English |
| Budget | $20 million |
| Box Office | $76.4 million |
| Cast | Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, Isabella Rossellini |
| Awards | 12 BAFTA Nominations including Best Film and Best Director |
| Critical Reception | Positive reviews for performances, direction, screenplay |
Plot Overview
Conclave follows the high-stakes, secretive, and politically charged process of electing a new pope within the Vatican. As the film unfolds, the audience is thrust into the dark and mysterious world of the Vatican’s power struggles. The film centers on Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, portrayed by Ralph Fiennes, who is tasked with guiding the conclave through a tense election period. Behind closed doors, the cardinals are not only vying for power but are also deeply intertwined in their personal and spiritual conflicts.
The papal election is portrayed not merely as a religious ceremony but as a contest of wills, with each cardinal hiding ambitions, secrets, and skeletons in their closets. As Lawrence navigates the election, he must decide how far he is willing to go to achieve the “right” outcome for the Church, a theme that deeply resonates with the audience and leaves them questioning the balance between faith and power. The film ends with a gripping twist that redefines the very nature of the papacy and exposes the deep-seated flaws within the sacred institution.
Cast and Characters
The film features an outstanding ensemble cast:
Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Thomas Lawrence
Fiennes delivers a commanding performance as the central figure, Cardinal Thomas Lawrence. Lawrence is a veteran cardinal tasked with overseeing the election, and his character is torn between moral duty and the hunger for control. Fiennes’ ability to convey internal conflict adds depth to the political thriller, making Lawrence both a relatable and tragic figure.
Stanley Tucci as Cardinal Michael Deacon
Tucci portrays Cardinal Michael Deacon, a schemer with his own agenda. Deacon’s political maneuvering adds tension to the story, and Tucci’s sharp portrayal makes him a key antagonist in the power struggle. His character is driven by ambition and an overwhelming desire to influence the decision of the conclave.
John Lithgow as Cardinal Giovanni Bellini
Lithgow’s portrayal of Cardinal Giovanni Bellini presents a more traditionalist figure, someone who stands in opposition to the reformist ideals of other characters. Bellini’s ideological stance creates a moral counterpoint to the more radical ideas put forth during the conclave.
Sergio Castellitto as Cardinal Antonio Ricci
A younger and more progressive candidate, Castellitto’s Cardinal Antonio Ricci offers a fresh perspective within the conclave. Ricci embodies the hopes of reforming the Vatican and modernizing the Church, which places him in direct opposition to the traditionalists.
Isabella Rossellini as Sister Maria
Rossellini takes on the role of Sister Maria, a nun who becomes an unexpected confidante to Lawrence during the tumultuous election. Her character provides emotional depth and a grounding presence amidst the high-stakes drama unfolding in the conclave.
Production Details
The film is directed by Edward Berger, known for his work on the acclaimed All Quiet on the Western Front. His direction brings a tense, atmospheric quality to Conclave, making the Vatican setting feel as much a character as the people within it. The screenplay, written by Peter Straughan, successfully adapts Robert Harris’s novel into a cinematic experience, capturing the suspense, moral dilemmas, and political intrigue of the papal election.
Conclave was produced by Tessa Ross, Juliette Howell, Michael Jackman, Alice Dawson, and Robert Harris. The film was shot in various locations in Italy, with stunning cinematography by Stéphane Fontaine, enhancing the film’s dramatic tension. The score by Volker Bertelmann adds to the haunting atmosphere, contributing to the film’s dark and moody tone.
Release and Reception
Conclave premiered at the 51st Telluride Film Festival on August 30, 2024, and was released in theaters across the United States on October 25, 2024. It made its way to the United Kingdom on November 29, 2024. Upon release, Conclave garnered positive reviews from both critics and audiences alike, with particular praise directed toward the film’s performances, direction, and screenplay.
The film’s depiction of the Vatican’s inner workings struck a chord with audiences interested in the complexities of religion, politics, and human nature. With a global box office gross of $76.4 million, the film has been recognized as both a commercial and critical success.
Accolades and Awards
The film was a strong contender during the 2025 BAFTA Film Awards, receiving 12 nominations, including Best Film, Best Director for Edward Berger, and Best Actor for Ralph Fiennes. Additionally, Isabella Rossellini earned a nomination for Best Supporting Actress for her portrayal of Sister Maria. These accolades highlight the film’s strong performances, direction, and overall cinematic achievement.
Latest News
As of January 15, 2025, Conclave continues to make waves within the film industry, especially with its 12 BAFTA nominations. Critics have hailed it as one of the most thrilling political dramas in recent years, blending intricate storytelling with powerful performances. Ralph Fiennes, who plays the lead role of Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, has received particular acclaim for his portrayal of a man torn between power and conscience.
The film’s ongoing success suggests that it will continue to be a fixture in awards season discussions, with many predicting further nominations and recognition at other major award shows, including the Academy Awards.
Physical Appearance of the Cast
Ralph Fiennes
Ralph Fiennes stands at 5 feet 11 inches (180 cm), a stature that gives him a commanding presence on screen. His sharp facial features and intense expressions are perfectly suited for the role of Cardinal Thomas Lawrence. Fiennes’ ability to convey deep internal conflict adds to the gravity of his character, creating a multifaceted portrayal that anchors the film’s narrative.
Stanley Tucci
Stanley Tucci, at 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm), brings a refined elegance to his portrayal of Cardinal Michael Deacon. Known for his versatility, Tucci’s subtle performance is a study in tension and manipulation, making Deacon one of the most captivating figures in the film.
John Lithgow
Standing at 6 feet 4 inches (193 cm), John Lithgow’s imposing height matches the traditionalist demeanor of Cardinal Giovanni Bellini. Lithgow’s commanding presence enhances his portrayal of a character who resists change and reform.
Isabella Rossellini
Rossellini, who stands at 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm), brings grace and wisdom to the role of Sister Maria. Her dignified appearance and warm aura offer a counterbalance to the high-stakes drama unfolding in the conclave.
Net Worth of Conclave as of 2025
As of 2025, Conclave has grossed over $76.4 million globally, making it a box office success. While the film’s production budget was set at $20 million, the ongoing success of the film across theaters and streaming platforms suggests that it will continue to generate substantial revenue in the years to come. The film’s positive critical reception, combined with its nominations for prestigious awards like the BAFTAs and Oscars, further solidifies its financial prospects.
In terms of individual net worth, Ralph Fiennes’ involvement in Conclave adds to his already impressive wealth, which is estimated to be over $30 million as of 2025. Similarly, the rest of the main cast—Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini—continue to enjoy successful careers, with significant earnings from their respective filmographies.
Social Media Accounts Table
| Platform | Official Link |
|---|---|
| Conclave Film | |
| @ConclaveFilm | |
| @ConclaveFilm | |
| YouTube | Conclave Official Channel |
