CONCLAVE – The Red Right Hand Movie Reviews [Matthew Stogdon]

Starring
Ralph Fiennes
Stanley Tucci
John Lithgow
Lucian Msamati
Isabella Rossellini
Carlos Diehz

Following the death of the sitting Pope, the College of Cardinals are convened to elect the next head of the Catholic church. Heading up the selection process is Cardinal-Dean Thomas Lawrence [Fiennes]. But with the arrival of a secretly appointed Cardinal – Vincent Benitez [Diehz] – a slew of subterfuge and machinations, doubt, suspicions and underhand practices rear their head. And given the warring liberal and traditional factions, it becomes clear that this time-honoured process will not be as straightforward as initially thought.

It’s worth noting that movies are not released in a vacuum. And given that 2024 has seen several elections worldwide, a film about a potentially corrupt election is one that is both interestingly timed and incredibly engrossing. On the one hand we have the flamboyant and outspoken traditionalist Goffredo Tedesco [Sergio Castellitto], who believes the church has already made too many concessions and wants to take the papacy back to an earlier, less tolerant time. On the other hand is liberal American, Aldo Bellini [Tucci] who refuses to compromise, insisting on dragging the church into the 21st century – to make it more modern and appealing. And while the standard politics of power, mistrust, intrigue and secrecy are on display, the mystery spreads deeper. Looking into the techniques of influence and deceitful routes to obtaining control. With multiple characters pulling strings and courting sway without ever really liking their options: “Is this what we’re reduced to? The least worst option?” A stance which will likely resonate for many, regardless of their political or theological leanings.

To enhance the political scheming and manoeuvres, Conclave boasts some incredible performances. Making this an entirely human study. You don’t necessarily need to understand the ins and outs of the inner-workings of religion to see how those near the top scurry for indirectly coerced authority. And at the very forefront is the wonderfully complex and nuanced performance from Ralph Fiennes. Not only for his ability to dart effortlessly back and forth between English and Italian, but also his constant inner turmoil and struggle with his faith. Not that he doesn’t believe but that he doesn’t see his role as having a positive impact. All of which is complemented by subtle, mature performances from Lithgow, Tucci, and Msamati, that reveal these individuals’ very human aspirations and flaws.

On a technical level, Berger has once again created a rich masterpiece on what could be considered an incredibly low budget. Every frame is masterfully shot, awash with gorgeous tableaus and dimly lit corners where almost conspiratorial conversations are held. And this creeping dread is ever-present thanks to Volker Bertelmann’s dark, string-heavy score – evoking ominous tones and giving each whispered exchange the necessary weight and impact. And, of course, we can’t forget the production design with lavish recreations of the Vatican’s inner sanctums and almost eerie cells, as well as the perfectly detailed costume design.

Now, despite all of this, Conclave isn’t going to be for everyone. This is not a mass appeal movie. It’s an exceptionally slow burn narrative, that takes its time to indulge and revel in the pageantry and tradition of the papal election. In that sense, it’s a truly contemplative piece. Granted, there are heated exchanges but, for the most part, the majority of the conflict is internalised. Oddly enough, you can take a parallel with releases such as Lincoln and Angels & Demons; albeit with any form of action completely stripped away. This is a war of minds and the lengths people go to persuade others and gain control – for better or worse. And the parting morals and takeaways largely boil down to a personal journey, more so than the lasting ramifications of the outcome of this election process. By narrowing in on a microcosm, with the entire world locked away, it forces you to address how these choices are made in the dark and, sometimes, without due consideration of the wider impact. In other words, detractors will say this movie is slow, boring, and fairly pretentious. But as an adaptation of a novel, it strives to create a non-exclusive, non-preachy approach to this subject matter. Rather than a complete teardown or unabashed conscription drive.

Release Date:
29 November 2024

The Scene To Look Out For:
To underpin how these senior Cardinals have become disenfranchised and disconnected from the billion or so followers around the world, there is a subplot about various attacks being carried out. But, due to the laws of the conclave, those sitting cannot be influenced by the outside world. Their concerns primarily for how long the selection process is taking will impact their appearance, rather than the reality that extremists are committing acts of terror. Which comes to a very blunt conclusion but serves as a cutting comparison.

Notable Characters:
**spoilers alluded to within**
After so much background plotting, it’s satisfying to finally see these old men reach boiling point and erupt into open accusations, finger pointing, and a general unbecoming shouting match. Which is exactly what happens in the dining room when a report into one of the Cardinals is circulated. Suddenly all of the courteousness dissolves and the forerunners stand up and tear into one another in multiple languages. Abandoning decorum, and all desperately putting across their points to win the seat through sheer dominance and pressure. And the fact the entire exchange is stopped in its tracks by a simple, impassioned speech from Sister Agnes [Rossellini] adds to that shock of humility.

Highlighted Quote:
“It is a war and you have to commit to a side! Save your precious doubts for your prayers.”

In A Few Words:
“A visually outstanding stage on which some truly magnificent performances shine, providing you can stomach the unrushed pacing.”

Total Score: 4/5

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