Secretive Vatican Meeting Unveils Church's Private Decision-Making Processes
In the gripping political drama, Conclave, renowned screenwriter Peter Straughan delves deep into the labyrinthine world of the papal conclave, breathing new life into Robert Harris's bestselling novel of the same name. The movie, directed by Academy Award winner Edward Berger, illuminates the inner workings of the Catholic Church's ancient election process, shrouded in secrecy for centuries.
Control freak Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, the dean of the College of Cardinals, presides over the conclave. But his duties aren't just about electing the new pope; Lawrence is also grappling with a profound personal crisis of faith. Simultaneously, he must unravel a mystifying secret that threatens to topple the very bedrock of the Church.
Lawrence's emotional turmoil extends beyond the election of the new Pope, complicating his journey. He's riddled with doubt about his suitability for the position, leading him to plead for permission to leave Rome and find solace in a monastery. However, his request is denied by the pope, leaving Lawrence to battle his self-doubt at every turn.
Conclave offers audiences an intimate glimpse into the opulent, closely guarded inner sanctums of the Vatican. While revealing tantalizing details about the election process, the film also emphasizes political intrigue and power struggles that unfold within the covert confines of the Church. The aged institution stands at a crossroads, torn between spirituality and raw political maneuvering, compromises, and the corruption power entails.
The film serves as a mirror for audiences to examine their own lives, grappling with questions of faith, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose in the face of adversity. It's a poignant journey that resonates far beyond the realms of faith, striking a chord with countless individuals who struggle to find meaning in their lives.
Conceiving the idea for the novel, Harris was captivated by the political drama unfolding on television during the 2013 conclave that resulted in the election of Pope Francis. Intrigued by the surrounding politics, Harris meticulously researched the process and created a world of political maneuvering and shadowy alliances for his new novel. By ingenuously weaving a radical twist into this conservative institution's narrative, Harris crafted a riveting tale that makes for a captivating cinematic adaptation.
Screenwriting books on movies-and-tv often serve as sources of inspiration, and it's fascinating to see Peter Straughan's screenplay of Conclave, based on Robert Harris's enthralling book, breathe new life into the intricate world of the papal conclave. This cinematic exploration of the Catholic Church's ancient election process, filled with political intrigue and personal crises, offers not only entertainment but also offers viewers a mirror to examine their own lives and questions of faith.
