'Conclave' Review

Edward Berger has returned to the big screen, following his classic All Quiet on the Western Front, with Conclave. My ratings are as follows:

Plot 9/10
Acting 10/10
Directing 10/10
Writing 10/10
Cinematography 10/10
Soundtrack 10/10
Effects 7/10
Lighting 8/10
Color 8/10
Emotional Impact 9/10

Overall: 91/100

Conclave follows Cardinal Lawrence, Ralph Fiennes, who is tasked with leading the charge in electing a new Pope after the passing of the former Pope. Political turmoil and conspiracy taints the election as Lawrence deals with the inner workings of Cardinals who are doing anything in their power to take reign as the new Pope. The campaigning turns violent, evil, and sinful as Lawrence struggles to keep the conclave under control. The film had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. While I could see people being slightly bored while watching this, I found it extremely engaging, in large part due to the performances and directing. Ralph Fiennes is the front runner for Best Actor in my opinion with his performance in this film. Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini make up the supporting cast and absolutely deliver on all fronts. Edward Berger puts together another fantastic film and executes on all fronts. I can see a world where this soundtrack wins big at the Oscars as well. This film was genuinely very enjoyable and engaging and it's one that I want to watch again very soon. The twist at the end is unpredictable and fantastic. Highly recommend seeing this film in theaters with a group of people who are just as shocked as you with all that occurs.