Conclave sets out to be a gripping political thriller, diving deep into the secretive world of Vatican power struggles. With a strong premise and a talented cast, expectations were high. However, the movie fails to deliver the intensity and suspense it promises. Instead of a sharp and engaging drama, it leans heavily on slow pacing and theatrical dialogue, making it feel more like a stage play than a cinematic experience.
So, does Conclave bring an intense political showdown, or does it leave audiences disconnected? Let’s dive into the review.
Plot of Conclave
The film follows Cardinal Lawrence, a well-respected but conflicted member of the Catholic Church, as he finds himself thrust into the heart of the Vatican’s secretive election process following the sudden death of the Pope. As cardinals from around the world gather to choose a new leader, hidden agendas and personal ambitions begin to surface.
At first, Lawrence hopes for a smooth transition, but he quickly realizes that this is not just a religious process—it’s a battleground of political maneuvering, backdoor deals, and power struggles. While the setting is rich with potential, the narrative unfolds at a sluggish pace. Tension builds, but just as it seems like something dramatic is about to happen, the moment fades away, replaced by long-winded conversations that feel more suited for a stage performance than a movie.
The film attempts to explore the moral dilemmas of leadership, loyalty, and faith. However, the execution falls flat, making the political drama feel less engaging than it should be.
Review of Conclave
A Visually Stunning But Emotionally Distant Film
One of the strongest aspects of Conclave is its production design. The film beautifully recreates the Vatican, with grand halls, candlelit chambers, and a hauntingly quiet atmosphere that sets the tone perfectly. The cinematography captures the weight of the moment, making every shadow and glance feel meaningful.
However, while the film is visually striking, it lacks emotional depth. The characters feel more like symbols of political ideas rather than real people with struggles and desires. The performances are solid, with the lead actor giving a nuanced portrayal of a man caught between faith and ambition, but the script does not give the audience enough reason to connect with him.
A Slow Burn That Fails to Ignite
Political dramas can be slow-paced, but they need a payoff—something that keeps viewers invested. Unfortunately, Conclave never delivers that moment of revelation or shock. The dialogues, while intelligent and well-written, feel repetitive and drawn-out.
Unlike classic political thrillers that build suspense with unpredictable twists, this film remains too safe. It teases conflicts but never fully embraces them. As a result, what could have been a gripping and layered drama becomes a movie that struggles to hold attention.
Conclusion
Conclave had the potential to be a thought-provoking and intense political thriller, but it fails to reach the level of intrigue that it aims for. While the cinematography and set design are impressive, the film is weighed down by slow pacing and a lack of emotional engagement.
For those who enjoy historical and political dramas, Conclave might still be worth a watch. However, if you’re looking for an intense and gripping thriller, this film might leave you wanting more.
Therefore, we give it a rating of 3 out of 5 stars.
