Moday Night Film Series presents CONCLAVE - FR

Event date(s): February 17, 2025
Time(s): 07:30 PM - 09:30 PM
Category: Fredericton
Location: Fredericton

The Monday Night Film Series presents CONCLAVE on Monday February 17th  at 7:30pm in Tilley 102, UNB.

When the Pope unexpectedly dies, cardinals from around the world converge on the Vatican for the secretive election of a new leader. This process, steeped in tradition and intrigue, is brilliantly depicted in Conclave, directed by the Academy Award–winning director of All Quiet on the Western Front. Starring Ralph Fiennes, John Lithgow, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini, this film is a riveting exploration of power, faith, and human frailty.

Cardinal Lawrence (Fiennes), the Dean of the College of Cardinals, must navigate the intense, locked-down environment of the Vatican as the cardinals sequester themselves to vote. The process, rich in historical rituals, involves burning ballots to signal the outcome, with grey smoke indicating no decision and white smoke announcing a new Pope. Lawrence, burdened with personal doubts and the weight of his past, presides over the proceedings amidst political maneuvering and moral dilemmas.

The stellar cast delivers electrifying performances. Lithgow plays a candidate teetering on the edge of ethical boundaries, while Tucci’s Cardinal Bellini, a liberal, struggles to gain support. Rossellini shines as a formidable nun with keen insight into the unfolding drama. The film’s visual splendor, captured by cinematographer Stéphane Fontaine, contrasts the grandeur of the Vatican with the human pettiness and power struggles within its walls.

Conclave captivates with its smart, provocative narrative and unexpected twists. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the arcane processes of the Catholic Church while resonating with universal themes of ambition, tradition, and the complex dance between faith and doubt. This gripping thriller is a standout film of the year, challenging viewers to rethink their perceptions and delivering a compelling blend of suspense and human drama.

“A major awards contender, this is a deftly executed and gripping tale of secrets, lies and human ambition. Fiennes is magnetic, while the supporting cast conspire to wrap this tale of faith, power and morality in sumptuous dramatic cloth.”  Linda Marric, HeyUGuys

This term, 15 limited release, independent foreign & Canadian films will be shown. Admission is $10/film, but a half-yearly film society membership reduces admission cost to $7/film. The series is open to all. Memberships are available at Tilley 102 every Monday night.

For further info, contact NB Film Co-op 455-1632  info@nbfilmcoop.com https://www.nbfilmcoop.com/monday-night-film-series 

The NB Film Co-op in partnership with the UNB Faculty of Arts, UNB Conference Services, and the Toronto Film Festival presents the series.

Building: Tilley Hall

Room Number: Room 102