German Director Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front) defends the unexpected ending of his latest film Conclave (2024). Based on the 2016 novel of the same name, the political thriller stars Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, who is tasked with something that begins to feel increasingly impossible: electing the next pope. Set within the Vatican’s inner sanctums, Lawrence must navigate political, spiritual, and personal tensions between his peers and potential candidates and ultimately face the shaky, uncertain future of the Catholic Church.
In an interview with Vanity Fair, Berger weighs in on Conclave’s bold ending, and its potential to stir outrage among religious audiences. True to the novel, the thriller delivers a bold twist at the end of the film: the next-elected Pope Benitez (Carlos Diehz) was born intersex. The film's director has addressed these responses, acknowledging the controversial nature of the film's conclusion and affirming his intent for it to spark debate, rather than aim for universal agreement. Read the full quote here:
Not everyone needs to agree with the movie. I love when people disagree, and we can have an argument about it, a real lively discussion. This is what Benitez is about—bringing people together, furthering discussion, and not squashing it. So if people disagree with it—which, to be honest, there will be people of course. But I’m not bracing myself, because I do feel that we try to deal with [the reveal] with diligence, sensitivity, and not using it as a plot device or anything. It’s also not a takedown of the church. It really looks at the people of that faith with honesty—trying to understand and serve everyone’s story.
What The Conclave Director's Response Means For Audiences
The Director Invites Viewers To Explore Faith & Human Complexity
Berger’s comments suggest that he not only accepts but welcomes a range of interpretations and reactions to Conclave’s daring ending. His response underscores his belief in the value of cinematic discussions, especially for films touching on topics as sensitive as faith and institutional power. By encouraging audiences to engage in “lively discussion," Berger highlights respect for diverse perspectives and invites viewers to examine their own beliefs and biases in the context of the film's themes, which even surround uncertainty itself.
Related
The new film Conclave surrounds the fictional election of a new pope. Here's how the real-life process works, and how accurate the movie is.
In many ways, Berger’s perspective allows audiences to experience Conclave without needing a certain conclusion to validate their views. This choice empowers viewers to come to their own interpretations, especially given the nuanced subject matter that the film explores. In fact, the director insists most people don't want to talk about the ending anyway. He notes, "They just generally want to talk [about] the feeling of the different political agendas, which seem to mirror the discourse of the day."
Our Take On Berger’s Response
Embracing Complexity: Berger’s Honest Filmmaking Philosophy
Conclave’s conclusion clearly represents a bold narrative choice, and Berger’s response shows a level of confidence in the film’s impact that is likely to resonate with the audience. His openness to different experiences with the film encourages an earnest engagement with an intimate concept, providing space for a discussion that doesn't shy away from hard questions. Berger’s emphasis on nuance over provocation as an end goal is notable, as it highlights his dedication to exploring rather than exploiting Pope Benetiz's identity.
Ultimately, Berger's commitment to honesty in portraying an unconventional pope adds depth to Conclave and encourages viewers to reflect critically on the interplay between faith and personal identity. By inviting viewers into this conversation, Conclave positions itself as a film that values introspection, securing its place as a memorable and discussion-provoking cinematic experience.
Source: Vanity Fair
Cardinal Lawrence leads the secretive papal election at the Vatican, where he uncovers a conspiracy and a secret that could destabilize the Church's foundation as leaders gather from around the world.
Director Edward Berger
Release Date October 25, 2024
Writers Peter Straughan , Robert Harris
Cast Ralph Fiennes , Stanley Tucci , John Lithgow , Isabella Rossellini , Lucian Msamati , Carlos Diehz , Sergio Castellitto , Brian F. O'Byrne , Merab Ninidze , Jacek Koman , Rony Kramer , Joseph Mydell Character(s) Cardinal Lawrence , Cardinal Bellini , Cardinal Tremblay , Sister Agnes , Cardinal Adeyemi , Cardinal Benitez , Cardinal Tedesco , Archbishop Wozniak , Cardinal Mendoza , Nakitanda
Runtime 120 Minutes
![How WWE's Bo Dallas Is Keeping His Brother Bray Wyatt's Memory Alive [Exclusive]](https://static1.colliderimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/playlistwysickappsofar_ntwk_rev_1-5efeea815a48b7cbf59e864cf75d5d6c.jpg)
:quality(85):upscale()/2024/11/04/810/n/1922564/da875c20672911f51e8a59.58915976_.jpg)
English (US) ·