Conclavethe german director Edward Bergerthe sequel to his Oscar-winning performance in All Quiet on the Western Fronthad its world premiere at the Telluride Film Festival’s Herzog Theatre on Friday night. And if my gut reaction to the film, and that of the industry insiders I consulted with after its conclusion, is any indication, then an Oscar race that has thus far seemed painfully thin may have found a new, high-level, cross-sectional contender.
The film, which Peter Straughan adapted from Robert Harris's 2016 novel about the aftermath of a pope's sudden death and the chaotic succession process that followed is hard to describe. I guess “dramatic thriller” is appropriate, though there are moments of comedy and horror, too, with multiple crazy twists that shouldn't be spoiled. Some are comparing it to Dangerous Liaisonsothers to the bizarre films of Yorgos Lanthimos.
What is easy to say is that the film is up to par on all levels. Its veteran cast is, predictably, exceptionalespecially the lead actor Ralph Fienneswho plays a cardinal appointed dean of the conclave and increasingly in a crisis of faith. (Is there a better actor who hasn't won an Oscar yet? Schindler's List, Quiz show, The English Patient, Sunlight, The end of the story, The constant gardener, In Bruges, The reader, The wounded cabineta million Harry Potter film — come on! And this performance is as complex and beautifully rendered as all the others.)
Very strong in supporting Fiennes are John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci AND Luciano Msamatiwhich portray the cardinals sequestered in the hermetically sealed Sistine Chapel, where the deliberations take place; and Isabella Rossellinilike an old nun who silently observes everything. Like Berger's last film, this one is also visually stunning, thanks to the extraordinary production design of Suzie Davis and lens of Stephane Fontaineand an unforgettable soundtrack composed by Volker Bertelmann (which took home an Oscar for its equally bombastic and memorable soundtrack for All quiet).
Focus Features will release Conclave in select theaters on November 1, for later release, which seems wise, as the film's near-certain awards season recognition will surely fuel interest.