Will ‘Conclave’ Finally Bring Ralph Fiennes an Oscar?

ConclaveGerman director Edward Bergera continuation of his Oscar-winning interpretation Silence on the Western Frontmade its world premiere at the Herzog Theatre at the Telluride Film Festival on Friday night. And if my reaction to the film, and the reaction of industry insiders I consulted after its completion, are any indication, the Oscar race, which has looked awfully weak up to this point, may find a new top-tier, all-round contender.

The movie that Peter Straughan adapted from Robert HarrisThe 2016 novel about the aftermath of a pope’s sudden death and the chaotic succession process that followed is hard to describe. I suppose the description “dramatic thriller” is apt, although it also has moments of comedy and horror, with many crazy plot twists that shouldn’t be spoiled. Some have compared it to Dangerous Liaisonsothers for weird movies George Lanthimos.

It’s easy to say that the film lives up to expectations on all levels. Its seasoned cast is, unsurprisingly, outstandingespecially the main actor Ralph Fienneswho plays a cardinal who is appointed dean of the conclave and increasingly suffers a crisis of faith. (Is there a better actor who has not yet won an Oscar? Schindler’s List, Quiz Show, The English Patient, Sunlight, The End of the Romance, Permanent Gardener, In Bruges, Reader, In the trap of warmillion Harry Potter movies — come on! And this performance is as complex and beautifully rendered as any of them.)

Very strong support for Fiennes John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci AND Lucian Msamatiwhich depict the co-cardinals locked in the hermetically sealed Sistine Chapel where the proceedings take place; and Isabella Rossellinias an elderly nun who quietly observes everything. As with Berger’s last film, this one is also visually stunning, thanks to the outstanding set design Suzie Davies and lensing through Stephane Fontaineand unforgettable soundtrack composed by Volker Bertelmann (who won an Oscar for his equally bombastic and unforgettable music for Everything is quiet).

Focus features will be released Conclave in select theaters on November 1 and will promote it thereafter, which seems wise since its near-certain awards season recognition will certainly fuel interest.