Conclave: Full cast and character list explored
Conclave is a 2024 mystery-thriller directed by Edward Berger, known for his Academy Award-winning All Quiet on the Western Front. Adapted from Robert Harris’ 2016 novel of the same name, the film explores the political and spiritual turmoil within the Catholic Church following the unexpected death of the pope.
The story follows the College of Cardinals as they convene to elect a new leader, unraveling a web of hidden agendas, personal rivalries, and dark secrets that threaten to upend the Church’s traditions and power structures.
The film premiered at the Telluride Film Festival on August 30, 2024, received a limited theatrical release on October 25, followed by a wider release on November 1, 2024 and began streaming on Peacock on December 13, 2024.
Featuring Ralph Fiennes as Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, the Camerlengo responsible for managing the election, the story delves into his struggle with loyalty, duty, and the compromises revealed through the conclave process.
With an ensemble cast including Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, and Isabella Rossellini, Conclave delivers a narrative that examines faith, power, and the cost of ambition within one of the world’s most influential institutions.
Main cast of Conclave
Ralph Fiennes
Ralph Fiennes delivers a standout performance as Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, the main figure tasked with leading the conclave. As Camerlengo, Lawrence maneuvers through the complex political and spiritual facets of the election, possessing significant authority yet burdened by his internal uncertainties.
Fiennes' acclaimed career includes outstanding performances in Schindler's List, earning him an Academy Award nomination, as well as his depiction of Lord Voldemort in the Harry Potter series.
In The Grand Budapest Hotel and The Menu, Fiennes demonstrated his ability to merge gravity with understated emotional depth, qualities he conveys to Lawrence’s conflicted character.
Stanley Tucci
Stanley Tucci plays Cardinal Bellini, a close ally of Lawrence and a significant rival for the papal throne. Bellini's allure and strategic aspirations render him an intriguing character in the competition.
Tucci, recognized for his roles in The Hunger Games and Spotlight, has garnered several Emmy Awards and Golden Globe nominations for his diverse performances.
The friendship of his character with Lawrence introduces additional complexity to the drama, as trust is challenged amid increasing political tension.
John Lithgow
John Lithgow gives an impressive portrayal as Cardinal Tremblay, a high-ranking church leader concealing secrets that might endanger his candidacy.
With years of experience in film and television, Lithgow is renowned for his performances in The Crown as Winston Churchill and Interstellar.
In Conclave, Tremblay's mysterious background is examined, enhancing the tension of the developing story.
Isabella Rossellini
Isabella Rossellini plays Sister Agnes, a devoted figure with ties to the late pope. Rossellini, acclaimed for her work in Blue Velvet, portrays a character whose insights into the pope’s life shed light on the Church’s hidden struggles.
Her performance balances empathy and mystery, making Sister Agnes a pivotal character in the story.
The supporting cast of Conclave enhances the film’s intrigue and depth. Sergio Castellitto portrays Cardinal Tedesco, a calculated strategist in the election, while Lucian Msamati brings gravitas to the role of Cardinal Adeyemi, a participant with a unique perspective.
Brían F. O’Byrne plays Monsignor Raymond O’Malley, an influential ally to Lawrence, and Carlos Diehz appears as Cardinal Benitez, a mysterious newcomer with hidden motives.
Merab Ninidze rounds out the ensemble as Cardinal Sabbadin, adding another layer to the Church’s complex internal politics. Together, this talented group of actors contributes to the film’s tension-filled narrative.
Behind the scenes and production insights
Filming for Conclave took place primarily at Cinecittà Studios in Rome, where a replica of the Sistine Chapel and the Caserta Palace was constructed to ensure authenticity. Suzie Davies, the production designer, led the effort to meticulously recreate these iconic spaces.
In an interview with the Los Angeles Times on January 1, 2025, Davies shared her experience of studying the Sistine Chapel firsthand, stating:
“We managed to get into the Sistine Chapel without any other tourists... I was able to feel the essence and see it as bare as possible to take that essence and that amazing artwork and the curious nature of it.”
Director Edward Berger highlighted the challenges of replicating such a legendary location in an interview with Variety published on December 15, 2024, explaining,
“It’s the Sistine Chapel for a reason, you know? It only exists once in the world. There’s one guy who made it.”
These locations, combined with the detailed studio sets, helped immerse viewers in the world of the papal election. The meticulous production design and attention to detail played a crucial role in delivering a visually compelling and authentic depiction of the Vatican.
Conclave provides a detailed look at the Vatican’s papal election process, exploring the intersections of faith, leadership, and decision-making within the Church.
Directed by Edward Berger and supported by Suzie Davies’ production design, the film presents the intricacies of this secretive event with attention to detail and historical context.
With performances led by Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow, the film captures the complexities of its characters and the dynamics of the conclave.
Now available for streaming on Peacock, Conclave offers audiences an opportunity to engage with a narrative centered on power, faith, and the challenges of leadership in an institutional setting.
Read more: Where was Conclave filmed? All filming locations explored
