Conclave

In its depiction of the Vatican in flux following the death of the Pope, Conclave explores the ideological schisms, political workings, and impact of scandal in the contemporary Catholic Church.

Cardinal-Dean Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) looking warily thoughtful among the other cardinals in Conclave (Focus Features).

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This post is part of the regular ‘One Take’ series analysing the politics of a film currently showing at the cinemas.

Content warning: Death and bereavement.

Note: Given that, at time of writing, Conclave is still showing in UK cinemas, this analysis only lays out as much of the film’s scenario as is necessary so as to avoid spoilers. It is therefore suitable to be read either before or after watching the film, while hopefully still enriching the viewer’s appreciation of it either way.