Gentlescoop

Strong colour and shape dominates in a film about the problem of our political lives today. Style trumps content here, a sadly prescient reflection, but it is not clear whether this was the intention of Berger and Straughan.

Many institutions are struggling with a crisis of confidence and belief, the Catholic Church included. Where new lines will be drawn in response, and under what compounding crisis, is the focus here.

The final twist could be considered a clear-eyed observation on the opportunities for new thought offered to us when we truly welcome human difference.

Or, perhaps, it is a drab reminder of how unimaginative our current landscape has become.

The films reminds us that difference still excites those of us who wish for better. But the fact that small variations in human life remain so novel is saddening.

It may well be true that this is where we are. But for a film about finding hope in doubt, Conclave made me reach for the book of Ecclesiastes rather than the gospel of John.

A beautiful film on a harsh topic. Nyoni presents a powerful reflection on the struggles of trying to change a world set travelling in ruts carved over centuries.

Perhaps some scenes fail to match the high standard Nyoni sets elsewhere in the film, but these do not detract from the overall force of the film.

Strong acting is presented through a tasteful and humorous use of both camera and colour. The technical direction takes what would be a solid performance by the cast and makes it even greater.

Nyoni portrays beautifully how to live in the face of grief and deep injustice. To survive together we need a will to live, and this can only come from shared joy. With no laughter we can only crawl.