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Overall, Conclave is a quality film. The cast is exceptional, particularly Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci and John Lithgow. I was mostly interested in witnessing some of the secretive, behind-the-scenes drama of selecting a Pope. While this is a work of fiction, much of the storyline probably reflects reality; Cardinals actively campaigning for the job, others reluctant candidates who would accept if chosen and those who clearly don't want to be Pope. We also learned that many of the Cardinals are deeply flawed. After all, they're only human. The private personal and small group discussions were also interesting fly-on-the wall tidbits. I think the film spends a little too much time focusing on the voting process itself. It became repetitive and tedious to watch. The ultimate selection of the new Pope was a bit predictable but there was enough uncertainty to keep me interested. Conclave should have ended there. Instead, the final scene is a plot twist which seemed totally unnecessary and a bit of a head-scratcher. Admittedly, I haven't read the book so I wasn't aware of the ending. My recommendation would be to stop watching when the new Pope is announced. That's a good way to end and it saves a bit of time.

The premise is somewhat interesting but that's the only redeeming value of this mess. The script is nonsensical, none of the characters are likeable and the attempts at humor fall painfully flat. Chevy Chase, Randy Quaid and Brian-Doyle Murray only have minor roles and are never in the same scene. They're apparently only on the marquee for marketing purposes. Quite frankly, they should be embarrassed. Don't be duped like I was. I spent $4.99 to rent which is $4.99 too much. Even free wouldn't be worth it. I didn't waste the full 90 minutes of my time because I bailed out early. It was too painful to watch.