The film Conclave is set to achieve a significant milestone this week, crossing the $100 million mark at the worldwide box office. This achievement is particularly noteworthy, as the movie is squarely aimed at adult audiences, a demographic often overlooked in favor of younger viewers. The news of this box office success comes on the heels of another major triumph: Conclave won four BAFTAs, including Best Film, Best British Film, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Editing. It tied for the most wins with The Brutalist, further cementing its reputation as a standout cinematic achievement. The film’s ability to captivate both critics and audiences alike underscores its universal appeal and the power of its storytelling.
For director Edward Berger, the success of Conclave is deeply personal. Berger expressed his joy at the film’s global resonance, stating, “This is such a personal film for me, so to hear how it has connected with and entertained so many movie lovers around the world makes me very happy. I am very grateful to our incredible partners releasing Conclave who have helped this film reach its utmost potential.” Berger’s emotional connection to the project is evident, and his gratitude toward the teams involved highlights the collaborative effort behind the film’s success. The movie’s ability to strike a chord with audiences worldwide is a testament to its compelling narrative, stellar performances, and masterful direction.
Conclave has performed exceptionally well at the box office, with a current worldwide gross of $98.5 million, just shy of the $100 million mark. The film’s international success is particularly impressive, with $66.3 million earned outside of North America, where it has grossed $32.2 million. FilmNation Entertainment, the production company behind the film, has been instrumental in its global distribution, working with local partners in key territories such as Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, where the movie is set to release soon. The film’s budget was a modest $20 million, making its box office haul a remarkable return on investment. Glen Basner, CEO of FilmNation Entertainment, praised the film’s broad appeal, noting, “Distributors have been telling us what their audiences want, and we have been listening. Moviegoers want a compelling and entertaining experience at the cinema, and audiences are more discerning than ever. Conclave is the perfect storm of great directing, writing, and acting and shows us how the independent model works.”
At the heart of Conclave is a gripping narrative centered on the political intrigue surrounding the election of a new pope. The film delves into the power struggles within the Vatican, exploring the factions vying for control and the complexities of religious and political maneuvering. The stellar cast, which includes Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini, brings depth and nuance to the story. Peter Straughan’s screenplay, adapted from Robert Harris’s 2016 novel of the same name, masterfully captures the tension and drama of the papal conclave, making the film both intellectually stimulating and emotionally engaging. The success of Conclave lies not only in its performances but also in its ability to make a seemingly niche subject accessible and compelling to a wide audience.
The film’s success is not limited to its box office performance; it has also garnered significant critical acclaim. Conclave received eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Actor for Ralph Fiennes, and Best Supporting Actress for Isabella Rossellini. These accolades further validate the film’s artistic merits and its ability to resonate with audiences on a global scale. The film’s international box office earnings are equally impressive, with standout performances in key markets. In the U.K., Conclave has grossed $10.3 million, while in France, it has earned $8.9 million. Australia contributed $4.3 million to the total, and in Germany, Berger’s home country, the film has grossed $9 million. Other notable markets include Spain, where it earned $5 million, Mexico with $3.7 million, and Switzerland with $2.1 million. These figures demonstrate the film’s broad appeal and its ability to connect with diverse audiences.
The success of Conclave serves as a testament to the enduring power of independent filmmaking. In an era dominated by blockbuster franchises, the film’s ability to attract a large and dedicated audience is a reminder that compelling stories and exceptional craftsmanship can still drive box office success. Berger’s personal connection to the film, combined with the talented cast and crew’s dedication, has resulted in a cinematic experience that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. As Conclave continues to captivate audiences worldwide, it stands as a beacon of hope for filmmakers who prioritize quality and originality. The film’s achievements not only celebrate the art of storytelling but also highlight the importance of creating content that resonates with adult audiences, proving that movies can be both intellectually stimulating and commercially successful. Conclave is more than just a film; it is a celebration of cinema’s ability to unite people across cultures and borders, offering a shared experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
