"Conclave" is a dramatic thriller movie that takes viewers to a world of intrigue within the Vatican which includes an in depth look at an election for a new pope. The series was praised for both its storyline and cast.
The Premise of "Conclave"
Based on Robert Harris' novel , Conclave is about an election to name a new pope. This event becomes the focal point of the storyline with an exploration into Vatican tradition, power and inner workings within its walls. All those elements help build tension and mystery while viewers are shown a peek into the complicated and private political world of the Church's higher officials.
Power Struggle and Secrets
The series explores various power struggles while revealing the many secrets from key players. After the death of a Pope a series of complicated and mysterious events occur and there is the need for a leader in all these events. As those involved try to influence each other many issues arise causing chaos.
Key Characters of Conclave
The cast includes a group of individuals that each bring unique challenges to their own beliefs in what it is they seek. Cardinal Lawrence oversees the conclave in the election of the pope. In addition is Archbishop Benítez, whose history has dark elements and questions about his path forward as he vies for power alongside many other key leaders who make important choices as they battle for leadership. All come together in this unique story.
Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Lawrence
Ralph Fiennes portrays Cardinal Lawrence tasked with a secretive role and through this there are new developments made apparent by each decision he undertakes. He embodies internal conflict and must face questions of power while also discovering hidden parts of the Vatican. He is torn between tradition and his own personal beliefs.
Unexpected Candidate
Archbishop Benítez’s sudden entrance shifts the focus of the story and the events begin to move toward that central idea. The information coming out is that there is more to him than his unassuming exterior. His back story is one that is different from all others adding to more mysteries. This creates added intensity as it is an issue that is outside of the traditional conversation the leaders have about who is to lead.
"Conclave's" Themes
Themes of power and tradition become key points. It looks into leadership battles and those caught between their core beliefs. As well exploring deeper ethical questions while trying to understand its views within the Catholic Church system.
The Divide Between Progressive and Traditional Beliefs
A lot of conflict arises between those wanting to liberalize the church against those wanting a very rigid adherence to the old values. Cardinal Tedesco holds those traditional views as a foil against Cardinal Lawrence who believes that certainty is what opposes unity and doubt can cause a need for faith. The show challenges ideas of right and wrong while keeping a historical context.
Controversy and Reactions
“Conclave” has garnered very high praise, with eight Academy nominations. However, it also has been controversial and criticized for an anti-Catholic bias . Some have voiced how they felt this was simply perpetuating negative ideas about the leaders with what some see as scandalous information within the film itself.
Controversy over Key Characters
The casting and storylines that unfold created controversy for specific themes. The storyline includes a cardinal who learns that he had female sex organs . Critics claim that this character undermines the traditions of the Catholic Church.
Representation and Stereotypes
Some have also complained the movie reinforces certain stereotypes. Some views claim it emphasizes issues such as corruption and power over the actual true purpose of church leaders as something that might make viewers have an unfavorable view.
Analyzing the Themes of Doubt and Faith
While one may try to claim that the movie endorses or denounces either side of the spectrum both progressive and traditional viewpoints in fact become equal parts in a way that both are explored. There are multiple views showcased within their conflicts while showcasing individual struggles and opinions of those seeking a higher position within a hierarchical environment. The film may create many unique challenges to how it will be perceived as viewers are shown to draw their own opinions during the telling of the story.
Questioning Beliefs
Cardinal Lawrence is one who shows those struggles which highlights the view that is also questioned regarding what truly constitutes faith. He seeks certainty as a personal struggle. This forces a question within those who would also identify as people who hold onto tradition, what true value is in faith that does not incorporate doubt. This becomes a point to consider and may influence various other individuals view within different structures.
Production and Setting
The movie does well with its ability to set itself entirely in Vatican city highlighting the feeling of secrecy. The production and costume designs all play unique parts which elevate a viewers experience to more than just an old set but a place with many secrets, power struggles and traditions.
Visual Storytelling
Conclave gives some visually impactful images that add to a story line which is full of mystery. From large and complex set designs that take viewers directly into the secret heart of the Vatican which allows the film to explore the complicated story and inner conflicts of many characters without much additional information to get lost in a complicated plot.
Key Takeaways
- “Conclave” is a thriller which uses Vatican politics and the selection of a pope as key storyline focus points.
- The series showcases different power dynamics and traditional concepts while raising many moral questions.
- The film earned eight Oscar nominations, showing a positive reaction despite controversies with different viewpoints of some viewers.
- "Conclave" challenges ideas on tradition, power and questions core religious aspects along with what is faith through a character’s search for clarity.
- The film presents the complex and private world of Vatican and how secrets within may influence large groups to different positions.