Beverly Boy Reviews - Conclave

Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events — participating in the selection of a new pope. Surrounded by powerful religious leaders in the halls of the Vatican, he soon uncovers a trail of deep secrets that could shake the very foundation of the Roman Catholic Church.
 

 

Release date: October 25, 2024 (USA)



Director: Edward Berger



Box office: $15.5 million



Distributed by: Focus Features


 

 

What happens behind these walls will change everything.


Thriller


Motion Picture Rating (MPA): Rated PG for thematic material and smoking.



Audience Reviews

Jeanne Umana
Read More
"A visually stunning thriller with powerful performances and Oscar-worthy cinematography. The film’s political intrigue, paired with a unique twist on tradition, makes it a memorable watch."
Steven Cayer
Read More
"An understated yet powerful film exploring the secretive process of electing a Pope. Exceptional acting, detailed visuals, and suspenseful pacing make Conclave a refreshing cinematic experience."
Nathan Liu
Read More
"A stately, well-acted drama about Vatican politics, full of dignity and refinement. While serious and lacking humor, it remains engaging and worth watching for fans of adult dramas."
Lee Stewart
Read More
"Respectful yet critical of Catholicism, Conclave features standout performances but a heavy-handed finale that may feel more like social commentary than realistic storytelling."
Wayne Borden
Read More
"An intelligently scripted film marred by implausible plot twists. While mostly brilliant, Conclave’s contrived ending detracts from an otherwise strong story."

Critic Reviews

Thelma Adams >> AARP Movies for Grownups
Read More
With a fresh score, Adams praises Conclave as a suspenseful, tightly executed film that appeals to all audiences, even those unfamiliar with church rituals.
Charlotte Simmons >> We Got This Covered
Read More
A fresh score from Simmons, who describes Conclave as a deeply emotional, puzzle-box drama that is both sensational and satisfying.
Bill Newcott >> The Saturday Evening Post
Read More
Newcott gives a fresh score, calling Conclave a tense, high-stakes drama with unforgettable performances and a twist ending that keeps viewers guessing.
Joe Friar >> Fort Worth Report
Read More
With a fresh score, Friar highlights stellar performances from Tucci and Rossellini, noting Conclave as one of the year's best films, with Fiennes deserving an Oscar nomination.
Josh Larsen >> LarsenOnFilm
Read More
Larsen describes Conclave as a potboiler with spiritual depth, combining crisis-of-faith themes with courtroom-style intrigue.

Overview: Pioneering Visual Storytelling at Conclave 2024

At Conclave 2024, this year’s most compelling films demonstrate how bold narratives and technical mastery are reshaping the industry. A standout production showcases the power of visionary direction and meticulous cinematography, setting new standards in genre storytelling. For Beverly Boy Productions, these high-impact choices offer invaluable insights into pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling and design.

Cinematography: Bold Visuals that Define the Genre

This year’s showcase features cinematography that goes beyond traditional techniques, using deep contrasts, dynamic lighting, and symbolic shadows to highlight the protagonist’s dark journey and complex internal conflicts. A striking color palette—dominated by reds and blacks—creates an atmosphere of urgency and tension, intensifying the stakes of the narrative. These films exemplify how a carefully crafted visual approach enhances emotional depth and character-driven storytelling.

At Beverly Boy Productions, this cinematographic style inspires us to explore how visual techniques like perspective, framing, and lighting can amplify a story’s impact. Through suspenseful contrasts and dramatic shadows, the visuals set an ominous tone and immerse audiences in high-stakes narratives.

Production Design: Crafting an Authentic, Chaotic World

This year’s films use production design to reflect complex, gritty worlds, capturing the protagonist’s environment with a blend of realism and stylized darkness. From underground lairs to expansive cityscapes, each scene is carefully designed to integrate both digital and practical elements, creating a tangible sense of place.

At Beverly Boy Productions, we see these examples as a reminder of how thoughtful production design can elevate storytelling. The skillful blend of CGI and practical effects immerses viewers in authentic worlds, reinforcing our dedication to creating detailed, transportive environments that draw audiences deeper into the narrative.

Camera Work: Bringing Audiences into the Action

The camera work on display at Conclave 2024 is dynamic and immersive, capturing the intensity of action scenes with fluid, sweeping motions and intimate close-ups that draw audiences into quieter, introspective moments. This mix of perspectives keeps viewers engaged, enhancing the emotional experience and highlighting the protagonist’s internal struggles.

For Beverly Boy Productions, this approach to camera work is a powerful reminder of how cinematic techniques can deepen audience connection. By juxtaposing wide angles with close frames, filmmakers capture the psychological landscape of their characters, creating tension and intensity that resonate throughout the story.

Post-Production and Visual Effects: A Technical Marvel

Standout films this year exhibit exceptional post-production, with seamless editing, immersive sound design, and groundbreaking CGI integration. Thoughtfully crafted soundscapes and powerful scores enhance each scene, while advanced visual effects bring characters to life with a realism that feels tangible and engaging.

This dedication to high production values mirrors our goals at Beverly Boy Productions to uphold industry standards of excellence. The seamless fusion of CGI and practical elements exemplifies our commitment to detail, timing, and cohesive design in crafting immersive stories for audiences.

Final Thoughts

Conclave 2024 presents a bold new direction for cinematic storytelling, where technical prowess meets deeply character-driven narratives. This year’s films, with their masterful cinematography, innovative production design, and expert use of visual effects, set a new benchmark for quality and creativity in modern cinema.

For Beverly Boy Productions, Conclave 2024 is a reminder of the power of high-caliber storytelling. Inspired by the year’s best, we are committed to bringing our clients’ visions to life with the same dedication to cinematic artistry that defines every remarkable film.

Top Cast and Characters

Photo: Courtesy of Focus Features

Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Lawrence
In Conclave, directed by Edward Berger, Ralph Fiennes plays Cardinal Lawrence, the conflicted dean of the College of Cardinals, leading the papal election process. Haunted by doubt, Lawrence faces a shocking revelation that could shake the Church. Fiennes is known for Schindler’s List, The King’s Man, and the Harry Potter films.

Photo: Kate Green/Getty Images for BFI

Stanley Tucci as Cardinal Bellini
Stanley Tucci stars as Cardinal Bellini, the Vatican’s steadfast Secretary of State. Bellini, unwavering in his faith, finds his friendship with Lawrence tested. Known for The Lovely Bones, Citadel, and The Hunger Games.

Photo: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features

John Lithgow as Cardinal Tremblay
John Lithgow plays Cardinal Tremblay, the leading conservative papal candidate. His ambition and hidden secrets fuel the intrigue. Lithgow’s credits include Dexter, Interstellar, and How I Met Your Mother.

Photo: Alan Chapman/Dave Benett/Getty Images

Lucian Msamati as Cardinal Adeyemi
Lucian Msamati portrays Cardinal Adeyemi, a Nigerian contender for the papacy who embodies both confidence and humility. Known for The Good Liar and His Dark Materials.

Photo: Geoff Robins/AFP

Carlos Diehz as Cardinal Benitez
Carlos Diehz’s Cardinal Benitez, a surprise candidate from Kabul, enters the Conclave with quiet determination and a deep faith. Seen in The Vegan Vampire and It Gets Dark Too Early.

Photo: Courtesy of Focus Features

Sergio Castellitto as Cardinal Tedesco
Sergio Castellitto plays Cardinal Tedesco, a bold Venetian eager to reshape the Church with his outspoken views. Known for The Chronicles of Narnia and La Famiglia.

 

Movie Highlights

  1. Political Intrigue Conclave 2024 delves into the shadows of power and influence, weaving a narrative rich with political machinations, alliances, and betrayals. Set against a high-stakes election, the film keeps audiences on edge with unexpected twists and hidden agendas.
  2. Complex Characters A stellar cast brings to life a variety of figures, from ambitious politicians to strategic masterminds. Each character harbors secrets, and their interactions drive a web of drama and tension that builds to an explosive climax.
  3. Timely Themes Exploring issues of corruption, loyalty, and morality in the political sphere, Conclave 2024 provides a thought-provoking look at democracy’s delicate balance. It examines how personal ambition can shape—or destroy—the lives of many.
  4. Visual and Auditory Excellence Directed with precision, the film’s visual and sound design heighten the suspense, bringing audiences closer to the drama. From intense debates to quiet moments of introspection, every scene is crafted to immerse viewers in the charged atmosphere of the election.