I went in hearing that this movie was a papal thriller, I wasn’t quite sure what that was but I was curious. I ended up watching a thriller that kept me guessing while diving deep into power, ambition, and faith, Conclave was unexpected and oddly captivating. Directed by Edward Berger and based on Robert Harris‘ novel, this papal thriller – because it is – doesn’t just entertain, it grabs your attention and challenges your thoughts on organized religion, human flaws, and morality.

The story kicks off with the death of a beloved Pope, setting the stage for a high-stakes conclave in the Sistine Chapel. Cardinal Lawrence, played by Ralph Fiennes with a quiet but powerful intensity, is tasked with organizing the next Pope’s election. But as the world’s most powerful Cardinals lock themselves away to vote, secrets start bubbling to the surface, secrets that threaten to their shot at the papacy and could shake the Church to its very core.

Fiennes’ performance is captivating. Cardinal Lawrence feels deeply human: torn, reflective, and haunted by the weight of his role. His speech about flawed men ruling a flawed institution hit hard – it’s one of those moments that makes you stop and think. a moment that will resonate with anyone whether you’ve questioned organized religion or not. But my suspicious was wondering, is Cardinal Lawrence genuine in his humility, or does he have his own ambitions? That question kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time.

The cinematography in Conclave is a work of art. Every shot feels purposeful, from the shadows in the Sistine Chapel to the close-ups that reveal the characters’ inner turmoil. Each scene speaks volumes visually, and the settings are stunningly realistic particularly when you find out that they didn’t shoot in the Vatican. You feel like you’re right there, watching centuries of tradition play out in real time.

What surprised me the most about this movie is how it critiques the institution of the Church without outright condemnation. It’s a love letter to faith but also a plea for progress. The film doesn’t shy away from uncomfortable truths, like the Church’s resistance to change, issues of racism, and the role of women within the institution. It acknowledges these flaws and many others but also challenges Catholicism to grow and evolve.

And then there’s the twist. Oh, the twist that I won’t spoil for you, but let’s just say I never saw it coming, and it left me floored. It’s bold, controversial in some way, and perfectly fitting for a movie that doesn’t hold back.

Conclave is more than just a thriller. It’s a smart, gripping story with layers of meaning. The cast, led by Fiennes, is phenomenal. The atmosphere is tense and immersive, and the soundtrack will have you holding your breath. This is the kind of movie that stays with you long after the credits roll.

If you love thrillers with depth, this one’s for you. It’s a masterpiece that feels fresh and timeless all at once. Don’t let it fly under your radar—you won’t regret it!

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