Conclave Achieved Milestone Passing $75 million

The Rise of Conclave as a Box Office Hit

In cinema, some films instantly capture audiences’ attention, and then some build up over time. Conclave, the 2024 political thriller directed by Edward Berger, is one of those films. 

Known for its high-stakes drama surrounding the election of a new Pope, it has quickly become a global sensation. Recently, it reached an impressive box office milestone, surpassing $75 million and hitting $100 million in earnings.

A Thrilling Political Drama at Its Core

The conclave takes place within the secretive walls of the Vatican, where a conclave of cardinals assembles to choose the next Pope following the death of the incumbent. The film dives deep into the Cardinals’ intense political maneuvering. 

Politics often combine religious power and personal ambitions. With the stakes being nothing less than the future of the Catholic Church, the movie is a masterclass in suspense, drama, and moral conflict.

Behind the Lens

Edward Berger, best known for his work on films like All Quiet on the Western Front, brings his seasoned direction to Conclave. The director expertly handles the complexities of the subject. 

While keeping the narrative engaging and accessible, his vision emphasizes the high drama of the election and the moral dilemmas and personal stories of the cardinals involved.

Cast Leads the Charge

At the heart of Conclave is an ensemble cast of well-known actors, each contributing their flavor to the film. Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and John Lithgow are among the leading names in this stellar lineup. 

Fiennes, in particular, gravitates toward the role of Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, the central figure whose actions and decisions drive much of the story. Their performances have been lauded for their depth and ability to elevate the material.

A Unique Exploration of Faith and Power

The film goes beyond simple political intrigue to explore the intersection of faith, power, and personal conviction. It raises profound questions about the role of religion in modern society and how even the most sacred institutions can be influenced by the same forces that drive political systems. 

Conclave portrays how power structures in the Catholic Church are not immune to the same temptations and conflicts that plague other institutions.

Visuals and Direction

Visually, Conclave is stunning. The film’s set design captures the grandeur and somber beauty of the Vatican while also portraying the claustrophobic and tense atmosphere that builds throughout the election. 

Cinematographer Ben Smith’s work helps immerse the viewer in the high-stakes environment, making the audience feel the weight of the decision. The visual style contributes significantly to the film’s atmosphere, heightening the sense of urgency and intrigue.

Achieving $75 Million

The $75 million milestone for Conclave is a significant achievement, especially considering the nature of the film. It’s not your typical blockbuster or action-packed summer movie. 

Instead, it’s a character-driven drama with a more specialized target audience. Achieving this kind of box office success demonstrates that mature, thoughtful films still have a place in today’s market.

Box Office Numbers

As of early 2025, Conclave has surpassed $75 million worldwide, significantly exceeding its estimated $20 million production budget.

Even though the movie was initially released with a limited marketing budget, its success is a testament to its critical appeal as it continues to resonate with audiences across the globe.

Global Success

While Conclave has earned a solid amount in the United States, its international box office performance has been equally impressive. The film has grossed over $63 million in markets outside the U.S. 

These figures show that the themes of faith, politics, and personal struggle have a universal appeal. Its success overseas proves that even a politically charged drama set in the Vatican can capture global attention.

Audience Reactions

The response from both critics and audiences has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have praised the film for its intellectual depth and intricate portrayal of the inner workings of the Vatican. 

The performances of Fiennes, Tucci, and Lithgow have been singled out for their subtlety and strength, with critics noting that their ability to humanize the cardinals added complexity to the film’s narrative.

The Importance of Timing in Success

One of the factors contributing to Conclave’s success is its timely release. With the global landscape constantly shifting, the film’s exploration of institutional power, leadership, and ethical decision-making resonates with audiences. 

Moreover, the Catholic Church, as an institution, remains a topic of interest and debate worldwide, adding relevance to the movie’s themes.

Political and Religious Themes

Conclave’s handling of political and religious themes strikes a chord with viewers who are increasingly aware of how power is wielded in modern institutions. The film’s depiction of backroom deals and secretive power struggles mirrors real-world political dynamics.

Exploring religious authority examines how faith intersects with worldly power and is used for personal interests.

Bringing Conclave to a Wider Audience

In addition to its theatrical success, Conclave has been made available for streaming on Peacock, making it accessible to an even broader audience. The shift towards streaming has been a significant factor in the film’s ability to maintain its popularity. 

As more people turn to on-demand services, films like Conclave can reach viewers who may not have attended a theater but are eager to watch it from their homes.

The Academy Awards

Given Conclave’s strong box office performance and critical reception, the film has been nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards.

While performances by Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci have received praise, there is no official confirmation of acting nominations at this time.

The film’s stellar performances, especially from Fiennes and Tucci, have earned them spots on many awards circuit ballots, adding to its acclaim and further cementing its place in Hollywood history.

The Future of Conclave

While Conclave has sparked discussions about its impact and themes, there are no official announcements regarding a sequel or spin-off. Director Edward Berger has emphasized the film’s standalone nature rather than setting up a franchise.

However, director Edward Berger has been cautious about discussing plans, preferring to focus on the film’s standalone power. Nonetheless, the world created in Conclave is rich enough to warrant further exploration.

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Conclave’s Legacy

Conclave has proven that films about politics, religion, and power struggles can resonate with niche and general audiences. Its box office success and critical acclaim mark a triumph for mature, thought-provoking cinema. 

As it continues to make waves across the globe, Conclave will be remembered not only for its box office numbers but also for its nuanced exploration of the complex forces that shape our world.

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