Movie buffs the 2025 Oscars were packed with surprises and some well-deserved wins and one film that really stood out early in the night was Conclave. This Vatican-set thriller snagged the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay setting the stage for what could be a major night for the movie. Let's break down Conclave's victory its journey to the Academy Awards and what it all means for the race for Best Picture.
Adapted Screenplay Win for Conclave: Peter Straughan's Writing Prowess Recognized
The screenplay category is always a big indicator of Best Picture potential and Conclave made a strong statement right out of the gate. Peter Straughan took home the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for his work on the film. In his acceptance speech Straughan kept it classy thanking the usual folks and then in a funny and sweet moment dedicated the award to his daughter Connie. He joked it was for her but not really hers like a jumper she borrows too much. It was a lighthearted end to a gracious speech celebrating his work in crafting the intricate story of Conclave.
Conclave and Anora: Screenplay Wins Hint at a Best Picture Showdown?
What makes Conclave's win even more interesting is that earlier in the night Anora another Best Picture frontrunner also won an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. This is setting up a real showdown between these two films for the night's biggest prize Best Picture. Both movies are clearly strong with the Academy voters and their screenplay wins are solid evidence of that. Are we headed for a nail-biting finish between the priests of Conclave and the strippers of Anora? Many think so and it's going to be exciting to watch.
Ralph Fiennes in the Spotlight: Best Actor Nomination for Conclave's Leading Man
Beyond the screenplay win Conclave also boasts a fantastic performance from its lead Ralph Fiennes. Fiennes received a nomination for Best Actor for his portrayal in Conclave. While he didn't win the award this year his nomination itself highlights the strength of his performance and the film overall. He was up against some tough competition but Fiennes' role as the cardinal at the heart of the Vatican drama definitely resonated with audiences and critics.
Vatican Intrigue and Oscar Glory: What is Conclave All About?
For those not yet in the know Conclave is a thriller set in the Vatican. It dives into the secretive and high-stakes process of electing a new Pope. Think political maneuvering religious tradition and intense personal drama all within the hallowed halls of the Catholic Church. The movie is adapted from a novel by Robert Harris bringing a complex and compelling story to the screen. It's a film that clearly appeals to Academy voters with its blend of serious subject matter strong performances and now an Oscar-winning screenplay.
Oscar Race Heats Up: Conclave and Anora Lead the Pack While Other Nominees Hope for Upsets
With Anora and Conclave each taking home screenplay awards the Best Picture race is looking like a two-film battle but there are other strong contenders in the mix. Emilia Pérez with a whopping 13 nominations was initially seen as a frontrunner but controversies may have impacted its chances. Wicked and The Brutalist both with 10 nominations each are also hoping to pull off a surprise win. And let's not forget A Complete Unknown which while maybe not a frontrunner has Timothée Chalamet in the Best Actor race adding to its profile. It’s truly an unpredictable year at the Oscars but Conclave's early win has definitely positioned it as a major film to watch.
Key Takeaways: Conclave at the Oscars 2025
- Adapted Screenplay Win: Conclave won the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay a significant victory early in the ceremony.
- Best Picture Contender: The screenplay win positions Conclave as a strong contender for Best Picture in a race with Anora.
- Ralph Fiennes' Nomination: Ralph Fiennes received a Best Actor nomination for his leading role in Conclave.
- Vatican Thriller Genre: Conclave is a Vatican-set thriller exploring the process of papal election.
- Competition with Anora: The screenplay wins for both Conclave and Anora suggest a close race between the two for Best Picture.
Will Conclave Take Home Best Picture? Stay Tuned as Oscars 2025 Unfolds
So Conclave has an Oscar in hand a screenplay win that signals major Academy love. But will it be enough to carry it all the way to Best Picture? That is the big question now. The Oscars are still unfolding and anything can happen. But one thing is clear Conclave is a force to be reckoned with in this year's race and its journey is definitely one to follow. Movie fans get your popcorn ready it is going to be an exciting night!