Conclave plot, cast and ways to watch hit political thriller at home | Films | Entertainment

The political thriller Conclave, released in 2024, quickly became a favourite among movie enthusiasts and is now readily available for home viewing. Directed by Edward Berger and penned by Peter Straughan, the film is an adaptation of Robert Harris’s 2016 novel of the same name.

The star-studded cast includes Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini. Fiennes takes on the lead role of Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, who is tasked with organising a conclave to elect the next pope but soon finds himself embroiled in scandals surrounding the top candidates.

“When Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with leading one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events, selecting a new Pope, he finds himself at the centre of a web of conspiracies and intrigue that could shake the very foundation of the Catholic Church,” reads the film’s synopsis.

Conclave premiered in UK cinemas in November 2024, following its US release. The film was well-received by critics, who lauded the performances and cinematography, reports SurreyLive.

The Guardian gave it a four-star review, stating: “Like the easily devoured paperback it’s based on, pulpy papal thriller Conclave has a brisk, page-turning allure, filled with juicy intrigue and mystery, a beach read that would follow you back home after.”

Conclave received critical acclaim, with Empire noting: “Conclave may be set in the Vatican, but it’s practically modelled on American politics: one character even compares one of the movie’s many backroom meetings to a US political convention. And yet, Berger’s rich detail is specific, nicely combining the worlds of political and religious power play.”

The film earned numerous awards, including four BAFTA Film Awards, two Critics’ Choice Awards, and a Golden Globe, alongside dozens of nominations.

The award-winning film is now available to stream on various platforms, allowing viewers to enjoy it from home. Conclave can be found on Prime Video and Sky Store, with rental options starting at £4.99 and purchase options from £9.99. It’s also available to rent in 4K on Apple TV for £4.99.

Conclave is available to stream via Amazon Prime Video