WARWICK SHOWCASE

CONCLAVE

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(Politics in the Papal Selection)

What a great time for “Conclave” to hit the big screen, as we look to the inside world of the political process, which shows its ugly head in both church and state.

Ralph Fiennes plays Cardinal Lawrence, Dean of the Conclave of Cardinals, given the task of selecting the new Pope.

The movie opens with the death of the Pope and the subsequent tasks put in motion to select his successor.

Cardinal Lawrence is a humble, thoughtful, ethical man of God, who follows the process in spite of the many roadblocks put in his way.

Why did the Pope want one of the Cardinals removed?

What is the truth behind the behavior of another one of the Cardinals?

Who is this unknown Cardinal from Afghanistan?

In addition to these mysteries, Lawrence must deal with the prejudices and manipulations of the group. There are liberals and conservatives. There are strong ethnic groups and traditionalists who strongly disagree on the future direction of the Catholic Church.

All of this takes place in the Sistine Chapel in the pomp and circumstance of the church’s long traditions.

Veteran actors John Lithgow and Stanley Tucci play key roles in the slow building story.

How can all these conflicting points of view be resolved?

The voting procedure is long and difficult as consensus seems impossible to reach.

Like politicians taking sides based on their allegiances and backgrounds, the Cardinals are human beings with strengths and weaknesses to at times cloud their vision.

Who is chosen? Possibly not who you expected. It will take many twists and turns before you find out.

The acting is all first class, especially Fiennes who gains your sympathy and admiration from the opening scene.

The cinematography is amazing, from the glory of the Vatican to the bright red robes and caps.

You will also learn about the Papal selection process.