The Pope is dead, long live the Pope. This film highlights the magic of moviemaking by taking an event that would seem to be fairly straightforward (electing a new Pope) and fills the proceedings with intrigue, behind-the-scenes machinations, some real jolts to the system and an ending you absolutely will not see coming.
German director Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front) masterfully weaves intertwining storylines to create an ever-shifting narrative. As soon as you think you have a handle on who has the power, the focus shifts and realigns your attention. This approach remains consistent until the end of the final reel.
Ralph Fiennes gives a powerful performance as Cardinal Lawrence. He is tasked with running the College of Cardinals as they gather in seclusion to choose the new Pope. He is still mourning the loss of the Supreme Pontiff but has to put his personal feelings aside. He is a modernist and puts his efforts into keeping a liberal Cardinal as the front-runner for the top spot.
Anyone thinking the Catholic Church and the Vatican in particular isn’t after all just a business will revel in the way the church is presented behind the scenes. The hierarchy follows the corporate structure and the grabs for power presented here would fit comfortably in a top-floor boardroom. The ever-changing power dynamic keeps you interested until the final extraordinary reveal.
Rob Hudson
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