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‘Conclave’: Read The Screenplay That Turns An Ancient Vatican Ritual Into A Modern, High-Stakes Drama

Conclave, a high-stakes drama from director Edward Berger and starring Ralph Fiennes, was written by Peter Straughan, who adapted Robert Harris' book.

The drama, which debuted at the Telluride Film Festival before it hit theaters in October, follows Lawrence, the dean of the conclave and right-hand man to the recently deceased pope. As the Catholic Church’s most powerful leaders gather to vote, Lawrence, already grappling with his faith and being thrust into a potential role as the next Pope, confides in his fellow cardinal, Bellini (Stanley Tucci), who aspires to the papacy. The film’s pace, unfolding over 72 hours, offers a gripping glimpse into the secretive world of the conclave as the cardinals cast their votes in each round, with unexpected obstacles emerging, shifting the momentum of the election.

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