Conclave (2024) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online
The Vatican’s secretive and ancient process of selecting a new pope takes center stage in Edward Berger’s latest film, Conclave. Adapted from Robert Harris’ 2016 bestseller, the movie turns the somber atmosphere of the papal election into an intriguing thriller, filled with political drama and moral dilemmas. Starring Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow, Conclave promises to captivate audiences with its star-studded cast and nail-biting narrative.
In this review, we’ll delve deep into what makes Conclave a must-watch film in 2024, where to stream it online, and which platforms are likely to feature this gripping movie in the near future.
Synopsis: A Thrilling Dive into the Vatican’s Secretive World
Conclave takes place behind the locked doors of the Domus Sanctae Marthae, where the College of Cardinals is sequestered to elect a new pope following the mysterious death of the previous pontiff. At the heart of this ancient and ritualistic process is Cardinal Lawrence (played by Ralph Fiennes), tasked with overseeing the election. What seems like a straightforward procedure quickly turns into a whirlwind of political intrigue, secrets, and power plays, as candidates vie for the coveted role of the Holy See.
The film stands out as a suspenseful, character-driven drama, where each cardinal brings their own agenda and motivations to the table. As the power dynamics shift, Conclave builds tension with every passing scene, revealing hidden ambitions and moral dilemmas in the sacred halls of the Vatican.
The Power of Performances
One of the biggest draws of Conclave is its stellar ensemble cast. Ralph Fiennes delivers a gripping portrayal of Cardinal Lawrence, a man caught between his duty to the church and the moral challenges posed by his fellow cardinals. Fiennes’ subtle yet powerful performance anchors the film, showcasing the internal conflict and responsibility his character faces.
Stanley Tucci’s portrayal of Cardinal Bellini, a progressive candidate for the papacy, adds layers of complexity to the film. Bellini represents the push for modernization within the church, contrasting sharply with the more traditionalist figures like Cardinal Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto), who opposes any change to the centuries-old institution.
John Lithgow also shines as Cardinal Tremblay, whose presence adds another dimension to the film’s exploration of power, faith, and personal ambition. The interactions between these formidable actors create some of the film’s most riveting moments, as their characters wrestle with their own beliefs and the future of the church.
A Cinematic Masterpiece by Edward Berger
Edward Berger, who previously helmed the critically acclaimed All Quiet on the Western Front (2022), brings his deft storytelling and visual style to Conclave. His direction transforms what could have been a visually stagnant chamber drama into a dynamic, atmospheric thriller. The Vatican, with its labyrinthine corridors and stunning architecture, becomes a character in its own right, thanks to Berger’s meticulous attention to detail and his collaboration with cinematographer Stéphane Fontaine.
Fontaine’s camera work is a standout, gliding through the Vatican’s sacred halls with a sense of both reverence and tension. The visual style, combined with a tense, atmospheric score, keeps audiences on the edge of their seats, even during moments of quiet conversation.
Streaming and Availability: Where to Watch Conclave Online
As of now, Conclave is still playing in theaters across the U.S., having premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) earlier this year. However, given the film’s potential for success and the current trend of quick theater-to-streaming transitions, it’s only a matter of time before Conclave becomes available on major streaming platforms.
Likely Streaming Platforms for Conclave:
- Apple TV+
Apple TV+ has already secured a deal for the rights to stream Conclave, which means the film will likely be available on this platform first. Given Apple’s recent push into high-quality, exclusive content (such as Presumed Innocent), Conclave fits right into their growing library of prestige films. Expect to see the movie appear on Apple TV+ in early 2024. - Amazon Prime Video
Amazon has also been acquiring a number of high-profile films for streaming, and Conclave could potentially be offered as a rental or purchase option on this platform. With Amazon’s established presence in the digital rental market, this is another likely destination for the movie. - Google Play Movies & TV
For viewers who prefer to rent or purchase films, Conclave is likely to be available on Google Play Movies & TV shortly after its theatrical run. This platform is known for providing the latest film releases for both rent and purchase, making it a convenient option for viewers who want to watch the movie on-demand. - HBO Max
HBO Max has a history of streaming critically acclaimed films after their theatrical releases, and Conclave could follow suit. While there is no official word yet, HBO Max would be a suitable home for the film given its focus on prestige dramas and thriller films.
When Can We Expect Conclave to Hit Streaming Platforms?
While Conclave is currently in theaters, the window between theatrical releases and streaming debuts has shortened considerably in recent years. We can predict that Conclave will likely be available for streaming on Apple TV+ and other platforms by early 2024, possibly around March or April. However, the availability may vary by region, so it’s best to keep an eye on announcements from Apple and other major streaming services.
Conclusion: Why Conclave Is a Must-Watch
Conclave is a film that blends religious tradition, political intrigue, and human emotion into a taut thriller that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. With its powerful performances, sharp dialogue, and gripping direction from Edward Berger, this film is one of 2024’s standout releases.
For those interested in a thought-provoking, suspenseful drama set against the backdrop of one of the world’s most secretive institutions, Conclave is a must-watch. Keep an eye out for its upcoming streaming debut, and be ready for one of the year’s most talked-about films.
