Watch The Conclave

In 2006, the film The Conclave was released starring Manu Fullola, Brian Blessed, and James Faulkner. The movie is a captivating tale about the behind-the-scenes action at the Vatican during the death of the Pope and the subsequent gathering of the Cardinals for the choosing of a new Pope. The film is a historical drama with a cohesive storyline that engrosses the viewers' attention from beginning to end.

The Conclave is set in the Vatican City, where the death of the Pope has taken place, and thus the conclave of Cardinals is assembled to elect a new Pope. The closing of the doors of the Sistine Chapel marks the start of the historical process of electing a new pope. The movie presents a unique viewpoint of the entire election process and the procedures involved in the process of electing a new Pope, including the politics behind the decision and the conspiracies surrounding the election.

The main character of The Conclave is Cardinal Jorge (Javier Bódalo), an Argentinean Cardinal who is a considered a leading candidate for the Papacy. Cardinal Jorge is a humble and sincere man who is dedicated to the Church and is passionate about preaching the Gospel. Cardinal Jorge is well-liked and respected by the Cardinals who have gathered for the conclave. Along with Cardinal Jorge, there are other notable characters in the film, including the Cardinal Dean (Brian Blessed) and Secretary of State (James Faulkner), who are depicted as manipulative figures who are using their power to influence the election.

The film portrays the Vatican city as the source of intrigue, rivalries, and schemes with different factions inside the church vying for the position of power. The conclave is a tense and nerve-wracking experience as the various candidates for the papacy vie for the position through politicking, alliances, and deal-making. The movie accurately portrays the crucial role of the Cardinals as they deliberate in utmost secrecy, trying to reach a consensus to elect the most suitable figure for the Papacy. The pressure is immense as any misstep could result in deadly ramifications.

The acting in The Conclave is stunning, with the actors portraying the different Cardinals with great intensity and conviction. Manu Fullola, who plays Cardinal Jorge, delivers a memorable performance, portraying the character with authenticity and genuine emotion. Brian Blessed, who plays the Cardinal Dean, adds a touch of menace to the film, while James Faulkner, who plays the Secretary of State, provides a sense of complexity to his scheming character.

The film's setting is one of its significant strengths, with the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican being depicted with great accuracy and detail. The cinematography and lighting used during the film enhance the setting to give an authentic and immersive feel by creating a sense of claustrophobia, tension, and anxiety.

The direction and pacing of the movie are also noteworthy. The movie is carefully paced, balancing the need to convey the detailed examination of the inner workings of the Vatican with the importance of maintaining tension and intrigue throughout. The movie’s direction creates a suspenseful and captivating atmosphere, keeping the viewers on the edge of their seats as the drama unfolds.

The soundtrack of the film is also a highlight, featuring an evocative and moving score by César Benito that adds to the film's dramatic nature. The score perfectly captures the various emotional states of the characters on screen, from moments of tension to moments of hope.

Overall, The Conclave is a movie that does justice to its historical context, providing an accurate examination of the election process of the Papacy. The movie’s dramatic tension, complexities, and a strong storyline make for an enjoyable viewing experience. The film is a must-watch for anyone interested in religious history or drama.

The Conclave is a 2006 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 39 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 6.5.