FILM REVIEW-MOVIE

Corrupt Men Extract Leadership in Conclave

Strength can exist between certainties — no spoilers

Second from left in is Sergio Castellitto as Goffredo Cardinal Tedesco, a favorite pick for Pope. Conclave image credit FilmNation Entertainment

The world is currently immersed in controversy, war, political anarchy, and environmental issues potentially leading to the destruction of humanity. Picking sides seems to be at the heart of divisions today.

So why pour gas on the fire and bring the film Conclave to movie theaters? As I watched this film, particularly a drama of this sort, I wondered why now and why this film? Do we need more religious division, even if it is fictitious, in our cultural discussions right now?

This film does not exist in a vacuum which could be the reason for this week’s release. Conclave asks important questions about power, leadership, and the future existence of entities like the Catholic Church. It asks if faith leads the choices of leadership, or is it doubt?

Fiennes as Cardinal Lawrence. Conclave Image credit FilmNation Entertainment

Conclave is about the death of a Pope which leads to a contentious battle between four candidates to be his successor. The film is based on a book by journalist and historical fiction writer Robert Harris.