The political maneuvering of cardinals gathered in the Vatican to choose a new Pope gives rise to fine performances but merely methodical drama.

But director Edward Berger’s adaptation, starring Ralph Fiennes as the cardinal leading the conclave, manages to be that rare thing in today’s movie industry: a riveting, thoughtful, adult-oriented drama acted out through dialogue by a sterling ensemble.

Fiction with thriller elements, “Conclave” purports to unveil how the College of Cardinals elects a new Pope for the Roman Catholic Church.

PLOT A cardinal running a papal election finds himself investigating a mystery. CAST Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini RATED PG (some mature themes) LENGTH 2:00 WHERE Area theaters BOTTOM LINE Solid, engaging, well-crafted thriller

John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci and Isabella Rossellini are also immaculate, but Edward Berger’s lofty ambitions falter The post ‘Conclave’ Review: A Fantastic Ralph Fiennes Leads a Pulpy, Hit-and-Miss Papal Mystery appeared first on TheWrap.

The politicking of choosing the next pope makes for a riveting film from Edward Berger that also stars John Lithgow and Isabella Rossellini

"Conclave," a thriller from director Edward Berger, showcases the inner workings of how a new pope is chosen. With Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci.

Based on a bestselling novel by Robert Harris, the Oscar-tipped film imagines what goes on behind the scenes of the secretive process – complete with scheming, smearing and leaking.

With beautiful cinematography and solid performances, "Conclave" is a thrilling tale of a mysterious process, writes Moira Macdonald.