Ralph Fiennes Stars in Pope Election Drama

The film 'Conclave,' directed by Edward Berger and starring Ralph Fiennes, dramatizes the intense and politically charged process of electing a new pope following the death of the previous one. Fiennes plays Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, who navigates ambition and deceit among the cardinals, each vying for influence over the church's future direction. The movie explores themes of ambition, faith, and the complexities of modernizing the Catholic Church, with characters like Cardinal Aldo Bellini (Stanley Tucci) advocating for reform against conservative forces. Based on Robert Harris's novel, the film combines political intrigue with deeper questions of spirituality, challenging audiences to reflect on the nature of leadership within the church. Critics note Fiennes's performance as a standout, emphasizing the film's blend of grandeur and suspense while highlighting its serious undertones.