MUMBAI: PVR INOX Pictures is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated release of Conclave, a riveting character-driven thriller that delves into one of the world’s most mysterious and sacred events - the election of a new Pope. Directed by Academy Award® winner Edward Berger (All Quiet on the Western Front) and based on the best-selling novel by Robert Harris, the film is set to hit the Indian screens on 31 January.
At the heart of Conclave is two-time Oscar® nominee Ralph Fiennes (The English Patient, Schindler’s List), who delivers a commanding performance as Cardinal Lawrence, the conflicted figure at the center of this secretive process. Following the sudden death of the Pope, Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with managing the covert proceedings to choose a new spiritual leader—a task fraught with intrigue, power struggles, and moral dilemmas. Fiennes reflects on what drew him to the role: “The script is a great read. It’s full of manipulative, rather dark figures doing dubious things. There’s ambition and corruption, but it goes deeper than political machinations. For Lawrence, it’s about finding the right spiritual leader—a decision that carries immense weight.”
With an intricate plot that intertwines political intrigue, personal secrets, and ethical questions, Conclave builds relentless tension within the hallowed walls of the Vatican. The film’s synopsis teases a suspenseful narrative: “When the Pope dies unexpectedly, the Catholic College of Cardinals convenes in the Vatican to elect his successor. As candidates emerge, each with personal ambitions and hidden agendas, the proceedings become increasingly fraught. Cardinal Lawrence must navigate this web of intrigue while confronting his own doubts. But when a shocking secret about the late Pope comes to light, the stakes are raised to unprecedented heights—threatening not only the outcome of the conclave but the very future of the Church.”
The screenplay, penned by Academy Award® nominee Peter Straughan (Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy), masterfully balances a gripping narrative with profound moral questions, making Conclave a thought-provoking cinematic experience. Commenting on the film’s layered storytelling, director Edward Berger notes, “Conclave offers a rare glimpse into a centuries-old ritual that is both deeply spiritual and politically charged. It’s a story about power, faith, and the human condition, with themes that resonate far beyond the Vatican walls.”
With its stellar cast, captivating narrative, and high-stakes drama, Conclave is poised to enthrall Indian audiences. Mark your calendars for January 31, to witness this gripping tale unfold on the big screen.
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