I was looking forward to seeing this movie more for the cast than the subject material, but watching a bunch of men who are dedicated to a higher calling jockey for the highest position available to them during their mortal lives on earth has its own level of intrigue.

The cast did not disappoint. Ralph Fiennes excels in his role as the master of ceremonies. You forget you’re watching an actor perform and you allow him to take you through the story from the title to the credits. He’s an imperfect man of God tasked with the process of finding the next Pope to lead the Catholic Church around the world, and that makes him a relatable character. The supporting cast includes Stanley Tucci in a subdued role that he does very well, and John Lithgow exudes ambition with a hint of deceit. Isabella Rossellini channels her mother in appearance and in her role of the nun handling the “back of the house” duties.

Fiennes delivers a homily before the conclave that defines the story and serves what I believe as the message of the movie. I need to find the full text, but he talks about certainty being the opposite of tolerance, how God calls us to be tolerant and open to the differences in all people. It was well-written and well-delivered. It’s up to audience to make it well-received.

The intrigue begins even before the sequestration sealing off the proceedings from the outside world, as the circumstances surrounding the Pope’s death are called into question. Fiennes’ character is thrust into the role of investigator as well as administrator, much to the suspicion of everyone hoping for a shot at being selected to be the next Pope. That suspicion elevates when he begins getting votes in the conclave.

The proceedings conclude with a bit of a surprise, but only to anyone not thinking about where the story is going to go. Just when you think things are wrapping up, the story takes what I found to be an unexpected turn. As the credits rolled, I felt like the ending was unnecessary, but as I thought about it over the last couple of days, I realized that it was in keeping with the movie and its message. Nonetheless, it may turn off some viewers and obscure what the movie was trying to accomplish for them.

While not an excellent movie, this is a good movie and worth watching. This is the kind of movie that makes watching different kinds of movies worthwhile. It’s not for everyone, but it will generate some discussion and cause you to think about what it’s trying to say.