Conclave: Meet the Cast Behind the Vatican Thriller

In the gripping drama "Conclave," audiences are drawn into the intricate and high-stakes world following the sudden death of the Pope. Cardinal Lawrence, portrayed by the esteemed Ralph Fiennes, is summoned to take on the monumental responsibility of overseeing the age-old ritual of selecting the new leader of the Catholic Church. This secretive and ceremonial process, steeped in tradition and heavy with significance, unfolds entirely within the confines of the Vatican. As Cardinal Lawrence navigates the turbulent waters of ambition, faith, and loyalty, he must confront not only the expectations of the Church’s hierarchy but also the deeply entrenched political dynamics at play among the most influential cardinals.

Stanley Tucci’s portrayal of Cardinal Bellini adds further complexity to the narrative. Bellini is charismatic yet enigmatic, raising questions about his true motives as the election progresses. As Lawrence engages in dialogue with Bellini and other powerful figures, he begins to unveil a web of conspiracies and hidden agendas that threaten not only his own position but the very foundation of the Church. The isolation of the Vatican becomes a pressure cooker for these powerful men, encapsulated in a confined space where trust is minimal, and secrets can change the course of history. The film masterfully explores themes of power, faith, and the moral dilemmas that arise when personal ambition collides with institutional duty.

As the selection process draws to its thrilling conclusion, Cardinal Lawrence must grapple with his own beliefs and the darker aspects of human nature that surface in a high-stakes environment. The tension builds as he faces immense pressure from those vying for influence and control, and the audience is left to ponder the question of who truly deserves to lead. With its richly layered storytelling and compelling performances by Fiennes and Tucci, "Conclave" presents a thought-provoking look at the intersection of religion and politics, ultimately questioning what it means to lead in an age of turmoil. The film challenges viewers to consider the complexities of faith and the hidden motives that can complicate even the most sacred of choices.

Full Cast of Conclave

Ralph Fiennes

Lawrence , Lawrence

Ralph Nathaniel Twisleton-Wykeham-Fiennes (born December 22, 1962) is an English actor, film producer, and director....

Stanley Tucci

Bellini , Bellini

Stanley Tucci delivers a compelling performance as Cardinal Francesco Bellini in the political thriller "Conclave." As the supposed frontrunner for the papacy, Tucci's portrayal is a masterclass in subtlety and nuance, capturing the complexities of a man grappling with the weight of expectation and the burden of power within the secretive world of the Vatican. His Bellini is both charismatic and conflicted, exuding a quiet authority while hinting at the internal struggles of a man torn between personal ambition and religious devotion. Tucci's ability to convey deep emotion with the subtlest of expressions adds layers to his character, making Bellini a figure of intrigue and empathy. His interactions with the other cardinals are charged with a palpable tension, as alliances are formed and broken, and Tucci's performance ensures that the audience remains captivated by the unfolding drama of the conclave.

John Lithgow

Tremblay , Tremblay

John Lithgow delivers a commanding performance as Cardinal Tremblay in the movie "Conclave," a gripping political drama set against the backdrop of a modern-day papal conclave. Lithgow brings a gravitas and subtle intensity to the role of a seasoned Vatican insider, whose influence and political acumen are matched only by his deep-seated convictions. As Tremblay, Lithgow navigates the intricate web of ecclesiastical politics with a keen eye, portraying a character that is at once calculating and principled. His performance is a masterclass in restraint, as he conveys the inner turmoil and steely resolve of a man vying for the most spiritually significant position in Christendom. Lithgow's Cardinal Tremblay is a complex figure, whose ambitions and vulnerabilities are slowly unveiled through nuanced gestures and penetrating dialogue, making his character one of the most intriguing elements of the film.

Isabella Rossellini

Sister Agnes , Sister Agnes

Isabella Rossellini delivers a nuanced and compelling performance as Sister Agnes in the movie 'Conclave,' a film that delves into the secretive and high-stakes world of papal elections. As Sister Agnes, Rossellini embodies the character with a quiet intensity, bringing to life the complex nature of a nun who is both deeply devout and intimately involved in the political machinations of the Vatican. Her portrayal is marked by a serene exterior that belies the sharp intellect and subtle manipulation at play, as she navigates the treacherous waters of a conclave where cardinals are gathered to elect a new pope. Rossellini's Sister Agnes is a pillar of strength and wisdom, yet she is not without vulnerability, revealing layers of emotional depth as she grapples with her own faith and the clandestine alliances within the sacred walls. Her performance is a testament to her ability to convey the duality of a character caught between spiritual duty and the reality of human frailty. With every gaze and gesture, Rossellini infuses Sister Agnes with a sense of gravitas and warmth, making her a standout figure in this tale of power, religion, and the search for divine guidance amidst the corridors of power.