Peter Straughan calls Conclave a “Labor of Love” after 8 Oscar nominations; Ralph Fiennes applauds director Edward Berger

January 29, 2025 - 6:44 PM IST

PVR INOX Pictures is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated release of Conclave, a riveting character-driven thriller that delves into one of the world’s most mysterious and sacred events - the election of a new Pope. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has recognized Conclave with an impressive eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, Best Actor (Ralph Fiennes), Best Supporting Actress (Isabella Rossellini), and additional nods for Costume Design, Original Score, Adapted Screenplay, Production Design & Film Editing.

Peter Straughan calls Conclave a “Labor of Love” after 8 Oscar nominations; Ralph Fiennes applauds director Edward Berger

Peter Straughan, nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay and already a Golden Globes winner for Best Screenplay - Motion Picture for Conclave, shared his thoughts on this momentous recognition: "It is an enormous honor to receive this nomination from the Academy today. Conclave was a labor of love from the beginning because of all the wonderful people involved—from author Robert Harris, to producer Tessa Ross, to director Edward Berger, to our amazing cast led by Ralph Fiennes. A huge thank you to all of our cast and crew. But I am mindful that the backdrop to these nominations is the ongoing threat to communities posed by the wildfires, and my thoughts are very much with the people of L.A. at this terrible time."

Ralph Fiennes, nominated for his portrayal of the enigmatic Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, expressed his gratitude, saying: "I’m thrilled to be nominated and to be celebrating the other nominations for Conclave. Edward Berger brought an extraordinary cast and crew together—he is an inspirational director with rare insight and a unique vision, which lies at the heart of this film."

Isabella Rossellini, nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role as Sister Agnes, shared her heartfelt response:
"When I was young, I was always identified as the daughter of Ingrid Bergman and Roberto Rossellini. As I've gotten older, this doesn’t happen as frequently; and, I miss it, especially today. I wish my parents were alive to celebrate with me this great honor. And, also, today, with this joy, my mind can't help lingering in the beyond to David Lynch. Our collaboration was key to my understanding of the art of acting. It is my past, all that I have in me, that I brought to my interpretation of Sister Agnes in the film Conclave, working under the clear, sharp direction of Edward Berger, his incredible cast and crew, especially the incomparable Ralph Fiennes. Thank you to the Academy. I am very honored."

Directed by Edward Berger, Conclave weaves a gripping narrative of faith, power, and humanity. Berger’s meticulous direction and outstanding performances by the ensemble cast have brought this adaptation of Robert Harris’s novel to life in extraordinary fashion. With its captivating narrative and high-stakes drama, Conclave is poised to enthrall Indian audiences. Mark your calendars for February 7, to witness this gripping tale unfold on the big screen.

Also Read: Edward Berger directorial Conclave to release in Indian cinemas on January 31, 2025