The Vatican-set psychological thriller film Conclave, directed by Edward Berger, and starring Ralph Fiennes will make its West Coast premiere as the opening film of the 47th Mill Valley Film Festival on Thursday, October 3.
The film delves into the enigmatic and captivating world of a papal conclave, where Fiennes stars as Cardinal Lawrence, tasked with finding the successor to the deceased Pope, discovers the former Pope had a secret that must be uncovered. Berger and Ralph Fiennes will attend the opening night festivities.
“Thank you, Edward Berger, for allowing us to enter the secretive world of the Papal conclave. Conclave, with all its intrigue and significance, beautifully portrays the human side of the cardinals, reminding us that despite their rise to the highest levels of the Catholic Church, they remain human, possessing the same strengths and weaknesses as the rest of us. This humanity only deepens the drama, enriched further by superb performances from Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini, along with brilliant supporting roles. While the ritual of MVFF Opening Night (which has been in effect for only 47 years) is in its infancy, I have no doubt our audience will feel the weight and importance of this sacred and ancient ritual, exemplified by your masterful filmmaking.”- Mark Fishkin, Founder, MVFF.
“I’m thrilled that we’re opening this year’s Mill Valley Film Festival with Academy Award-winning director Edward Berger’s latest,” said MVFF Director of Programming Zoë Elton. “He’s again proving himself a director of note—visually, aurally, and as an actors’ director. This film works on so many levels, articulated through an ensemble of actors who are absolutely on the top of their game. Ralph Fiennes’s central performance is gorgeously nuanced. In a role both complex and heartfelt, he creates an unforgettable emotional epicenter to this completely gripping film. It’s a great reminder of why we love cinema!”
Conclave follows one of the world’s most secretive and ancient events – selecting a new Pope. Cardinal Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) is tasked with running this covert process after the unexpected death of the beloved Pope. Once the Catholic Church’s most powerful leaders have gathered from around the world and are locked together in the Vatican halls, Lawrence finds himself at the center of a conspiracy and discovers a secret that could shake the very foundation of The Church.
In addition to Fiennes, Conclave stars Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Carlos Diehz, and Isabella Rossellini. Focus will release the film in the US beginning November 1, 2024.
The 47th Mill Valley Film Festival runs October 3-13, 2024.