Conclave, rated PG
*** ½  

Conclave is an excellent film about the process of selecting a new pope after the death of the current pope. The film features a strong cast and was directed by Oscar nominee Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front). The film was written by Oscar nominee Peter Straughan (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy) and Robert Harris, based on his 2016 book Conclave.
Cardinal Lawrence, played by two-time Oscar nominee Ralph Fiennes (The English Patient, Schindler’s List), is the Dean of the College of Cardinals. It is his responsibility to preside over the College of Cardinals, sequestered in a special dormitory to select the next pope by vote. Cardinal Lawrence has no interest in being the next pope. In fact, he has had doubts, finds it hard to pray, and recently had asked the Pope to be relieved of his duties, but the Pope rejected his resignation. Continue reading →