Exploring the Unexpected Twist in Conclave: A Deep Dive into the Film's Ending

Image credits: Courtesy of Focus Features

The film Conclave, directed by Edward Berger, has been making waves in the entertainment industry with its unexpected twists and turns. The movie, which is based on a novel of the same name by Robert Harris, tells the story of a papal conclave and the secrets that lie beneath the surface of the Catholic Church. With a star-studded cast, including Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini, Conclave has received widespread critical acclaim, including eight Oscar nominations. One of the most striking aspects of the film is its ending, which defies expectations and challenges the viewer to think critically about the themes of identity, power, and progress.

At the heart of the film is the story of Cardinal Vincent Benitez, played by Carlos Diehz, who emerges as a dark horse candidate in the papal conclave. Despite being a relatively unknown figure, Benitez gains momentum as the other candidates are embroiled in scandals and controversies. In a surprising twist, Benitez is ultimately elected as the new pope, and his acceptance speech is a powerful call to action for the Catholic Church to embrace tolerance and understanding. The film's portrayal of Benitez as a complex and nuanced character, who identifies as intersex and has a unique perspective on the world, is a bold move that challenges traditional notions of identity and faith.

The film's exploration of the Catholic Church as an institution is also noteworthy, as it highlights the patriarchal nature of the organization and the ways in which it can be hypocritical in its pursuit of power. Through the character of Sister Agnes, played by Isabella Rossellini, the film sheds light on the ways in which women are marginalized and excluded from positions of power within the Church. The film's depiction of the conclave as a cutthroat and often brutal process, in which candidates are willing to do whatever it takes to win, is also a commentary on the darker aspects of human nature.

One of the key themes of the film is the idea of progress and how it can be achieved in the face of adversity. The election of Benitez as pope is a symbol of hope for the future, as he represents a new perspective and a willingness to challenge the status quo. The film's use of imagery, particularly in the final scenes, is also noteworthy, as it suggests a sense of liberation and renewal. The sound of the nuns laughing and the image of the windows of the Vatican opening to let in the light are powerful symbols of the possibility of change and transformation.

In terms of its release, Conclave is currently streaming on Peacock and is available to rent or buy via Amazon Prime. The film has received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising its thought-provoking themes and powerful performances. The film's success has also been recognized at the Oscars, with Peter Straughan winning the award for Best Adapted Screenplay. With its unique blend of politics, drama, and social commentary, Conclave is a must-see film for anyone interested in exploring the complexities of the human experience. Some of the notable releases and awards related to the film include:

• Conclave (2024) - film release
• Golden Globes - won several awards
• British Academy Film Awards - won several awards
• Critics' Choice Movie Awards - won several awards
• Oscar nominations - eight nominations, including Best Picture