A new Stanley Tucci film is making waves, and it’s got all the drama you didn’t know you needed. It centres around a secretive room where cardinals gather, gossiping as they attempt to choose a new Pope. Well yes, that’s the premise of Conclave, an adaptation of Robert Harris’s bestseller. If doesn’t have you hanging tight, maybe our section of entertainment stories will.
The film recently premiered at the London Film Festival and got everyone talking. Here’s the scoop: Directed by the amazing Edward Berger, who’s fresh off his Oscar win for All Quiet on the Western Front, Conclave features an A-list lineup. We’re talking Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci (duh), John Lithgow, and the legendary Isabella Rossellini. This film promises laughs, gasps, and perhaps a few “Oh my god” moments.
A Star-Studded Cast That Shines
Okay, let’s talk about the actual cast for a second here – and we’d like to begin with Ralph Fiennes. You might know him as Voldemort or Chef Julian Slowik from The Menu. In Conclave, he’s switching gears to play Cardinal Lawrence. His character is like a referee in a chaotic game—trying to keep things in line while everyone else is throwing verbal punches (figuratively, of course).
Then there’s Stanley Tucci, an actor who’s a shapeshifter—seriously. He’s known for his quirky roles and sharp wit. In Conclave, he’ll bring that charm and intelligence as Bellini, a cardinal with secrets of his own. Expect a lot of witty banter and some side-eye glances.
John Lithgow, the legendary actor who seems to age backward, brings depth to the film. His portrayal adds a layer of mystery and intrigue that you just can’t ignore. Let’s not forget Isabella Rossellini, who’s basically a Hollywood treasure. Her presence in this film is like adding a cherry on top of a perfect sundae. This cast is stacked, folks. When you put together such a crew, you know it’s going to be one for the books.
A Plot That Will Keep You Guessing
Conclave revolves around a highly secretive ritual: electing a new Pope. The story begins with the sudden death of a beloved Pope, creating a tense atmosphere in the Vatican. After his death, things get spicy. Cardinal Lawrence, played by Fiennes, is thrown into the deep end. His job? To keep this group of scheming cardinals in check as they grapple for power. As they gather in the Vatican, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Imagine a room filled with power-hungry leaders, all trying to outsmart each other. There are alliances forming, betrayals lurking around every corner, and secrets waiting to spill – It’s the Vatican, so no guesses there.
John Lithgow’s quote in the trailer—“The pope is dead, the throne is vacant”—sets the mood. This isn’t just a political struggle; it is about faith, ambition, and the true meaning of leadership. In short, the movie offers an exciting blend of humour and tension, and a glimpse into one of the world’s oldest institutions. Conclave releases on October 25, 2024 in theatres.
Images: Pinterest