The political maneuvering of cardinals gathered in the Vatican to choose a new Pope gives rise to fine performances but merely methodical drama.

“Conclave” wasn’t made with the Vatican’s involvement; it was shot at the legendary Rome studio Cinecittà. The film, made for about $20 million and scripted by Peter Straughan, is primarily a procedural, albeit one with a spiritual dimension.

PLOT A cardinal running a papal election finds himself investigating a mystery. CAST Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, Isabella Rossellini RATED PG (some mature themes) LENGTH 2:00 WHERE Area theaters BOTTOM LINE Solid, engaging, well-crafted thriller

"Conclave," a thriller from director Edward Berger, showcases the inner workings of how a new pope is chosen. With Ralph Fiennes and Stanley Tucci.

Based on a bestselling novel by Robert Harris, the Oscar-tipped film imagines what goes on behind the scenes of the secretive process – complete with scheming, smearing and leaking.

With beautiful cinematography and solid performances, "Conclave" is a thrilling tale of a mysterious process, writes Moira Macdonald.

The new movie Conclave dramatizes the Vatican's search for a new pope — and the perils of ambition within its ranks. Ralph Fiennes talks about his starring role.