Ralph Fiennes’ papal thriller film is divine

His progressive friend Bellini (Stanley Tucci) is one of the group’s favorites, but so is the power-hungry and dangerously conservative Tedesco (Sergio Castellitto). The charmingly devious Tremblay (John Lithgow) throws his considerable political weight into the fray as Adeyemi (Lucian Msamati) vies to become the first African pope. Then there’s Benitez (Carlos Diehz), a cardinal from Kabul who no one even knew existed except the dead man who appointed him.

Some are cool, some are corrupt, and many have hidden agendas or outright secrets. As alliances form and tempers flare, Lawrence becomes the de facto Saint Columbo, investigating potential scandals and assorted backstabbing as the story meanders before the white smoke finally billows in the film’s pleasantly shocking finale. (Write it down to divine intervention if you can see THAT coming.)

Having a bunch of ambitious religious guys stuck in one place gives “Conclave” a hostile and explosive energy, which contrasts with the wonder and awe of the papal voices unfolding in the Sistine Chapel. (They didn’t film at the actual location, but, holy cow, does Berger still immerse you in the splendor.)