With “All Quiet on the Western Front”, Edward Berger was able to convince both the audience and the specialist press. And his new film “Conclave” could achieve something similar.
Focus Features
“All Quiet on the Western Front” was one of the big film surprises of 2022. The remake of the 1930 anti-war masterpiece of the same name impressed with an outstanding acting performance – above all, of course, by Felix Kammerer, who led the audience through hell as Paul Bäumer, who was initially enthusiastic about the war and later disillusioned. But the oppressive atmosphere and the excellent score by Volker Bertelmann also contributed to the film ultimately being nominated for an Oscar nine times and winning the golden boy in four categories – including best international film, best cinematography, best film music and best production design.
After this triumphal procession, director Edward Berger all doors in Hollywood open.”Conclave“, his new project, was eagerly awaited. It is an adaptation of the novel of the same name by Robert Harris.
The plot is about Cardinal Lawrence (“James Bond” and “Harry Potter” star Ralph Fiennes), who is in an acute crisis of faith and meaning. But now, of all times, the Pope – the head of the Church – is dying and now, as dean, he has to lead the election of the new Pontiff. But he soon clashes with some ambitious colleagues. He begins to get tangled up in a real web of intrigue…
The press celebrates the film
Currently, “Konklave” is on the review collection page RottenTomatoes at an incredible 100 percentHowever, it should be noted that only 13 reviews have been received for the film so far. As more reviews come in from the specialist press, it will become clear how good Edward Berger’s adaptation of the novel really is.
It remains to be seen whether “Conclave” can surpass the fabulous rating of its predecessor “All Quiet on the Western Front”, which received a score of 90 percent from both critics and audiences. But of course the currently perfect score is already a first exclamation mark that further fuels our excitement for the drama.
We can also look forward to a whole series of stars who have appeared in front of the camera for Berger. In addition to Ralph Fiennes, we will also see John Lithgow (“Planet of the Apes: Prevolution”), Stanley Tucci (“In Heaven”) and Isabella Rossellini (“Blue Velvet”) on the big screen.
“Konklave” will be released in German cinemas on November 21, 2024. If you want to take a look now, you can watch the first trailer here:
