Conclave (2024)

Who knew this process could be so political? In my naivety, I always assumed the election of a pope was peaceful, orderly, and drama-free.

Instead, what we get is a fascinating study of power, ambition, and human nature. Built on a foundation of well-drawn, distinctly interesting characters with competing motivations, the story unfolds with a surprising number of twists and turns. Strong writing and wonderfully crafted speeches steer the plot in unexpected directions. Like an episode of Game of Thrones, you can feel the odds shifting with every scene. And with the character-driven drama playing out almost entirely within a confined space, the film creates a remarkable pressure cooker atmosphere reminiscent of 12 Angry Men. Even with the film’s gentle pace, the tension continuously builds.

Acting is authentic across the board, with Ralph Fiennes delivering a standout performance. He portrays anxiety and indecision with exquisite delicacy.

The film is beautifully shot, and the costumes are stunning, even if they are slightly embellished.

Ultimately, Conclave is a masterclass in leadership under pressure. Anyone heading into management should consider this as a training video.