Conclave is an efficient chamber piece; evoking curiousities of how a pope is chosen as well as suggesting what cutthroat decisions happen before smoke bellows out of the Vatican to update the unsuspecting public.

Overseen by Cardinal-Dean Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes of The Menu), the voting procedures that follow the death of a former pope strike Lawrence at a time of doubting his faith. He keeps this vulnerability close to his chest, but is called out in private by those who are privy to his secret. Mostly because the other candidates are growing frustrated by having their integrity jeopardized by Lawrence’s research. Along with Lawrence’s meddling, political views of the running Cardinals are influencing voters as well as violent conflicts that are happening outside of the Sistine Chapel.

Fiennes leads a cast of seasoned actors (including John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini) who are all committed to their roles. Director Edward Berger (Netflix’s All Quiet on the Western Front) spins the limited environments rather well, providing viewers with an interesting tour around the film’s recreated Vatican. Just when the viewer has an understanding of the building, new nooks and crannies are revealed when private meetings are held. And cinematographer Stéphane Fontaine (Captain Fantastic, Elle) executes exceptional camerawork and gets plenty of mileage out of contrasting colours. However, these flavourful components are standouts in an, otherwise, cold drama that lacks personality. The movie has a comprehension of its character’s morals (or lack thereof) but, because of how deliberately drawn-out this story is, the weight of the movie starts draining the audience.

Movie goers seeking character-driven bottled dramas should still check out Conclave, as it may enthral them more. While I respect Conclave and appreciate its interesting perspectives, viewing it once was enough for me.

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Addison Wylie: @AddisonWylie