DVD Corner

Conclave 4K UHD Review

“Conclave” is an engrossing thriller.

After the Pope passes away, Cardinal Lawrence is tasked with overseeing the Conclave at the Sistine Chapel. There are 4 main candidates- Aldo Bellini, Joshua Adeyemi, Joseph Tremblay and Goffredo Tedesco all of whom have wildly different political backgrounds. As the Conclave unfolds and voting takes place, secrets, scandals, and a cover-up surface which wind up eliminating candidates from contention. To add to the chaos, a bombing takes place outside the church. Who will be chosen as the new Pope? Will an unlikely candidate emerge as the victor in the end?

Based on the novel by Robert Harris and adapted by Peter Straughan, “Conclave” is one of the more surprising films of 2024. A story about a Pope’s election isn’t a topic that holds any interest to me, but director Edward Berger and Peter Straughan manage to make the story downright thrilling. The story’s twists and turns, the backstabbing, the politics, and the factions of voters will have you glued to the screen from start to finish. It doesn’t hurt that the film is also a visual marvel thanks to the dazzling cinematography by Stéphane Fontaine. 

Naturally, the cast puts the film over the top. This is a truly star studded affair with Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini and John Lithgow having major roles. While everyone is on point here, it’s Ralph Fiennes who gives one of the best performances of an already illustrious career. He has such a way of making the dialogue his own.

Note: The Blu-ray and DVD releases are now available. The 4K release is due out Feb. 11, 2025.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 2160p. How does it look? The beautifully shot film shines on 4K. Well worth holding off on the Blu-ray to get the 4K.

Audio Track: Dolby Atmos. How does it sound? An all around superb track.

Extras include a Digital Copy, a Blu-ray copy, a commentary by director Edward Berger and the “Sequestered: Inside Conclave” featurette which contains film clips, interviews, story and character discussions and set footage. 

January 8, 2025 - Posted by nicklyons1 | 4K UHD Review | Conclave 4K UHD Review, Edwards Berger, Pope, Ralph Fiennes, thriller