Embark on a captivating journey behind the scenes of the new papal political thriller "Conclave," where the allure of Rome's culinary delights and the complexities of faith intertwine. Discover the insights of the film's stars, Ralph Fiennes and director Edward Berger, as they share their experiences of working with the renowned Stanley Tucci and delve into the profound questions that the movie explores.

Indulging in the Flavors of Rome: A Cinematic Collaboration Seasoned with Culinary Delights

Savoring the Culinary Collaborations of Tucci and Berger

The true perk of filming "Conclave" in Rome wasn't just the stunning backdrop, but the opportunity to indulge in the city's culinary wonders. Director Edward Berger recounts a memorable experience, where the cast and crew ventured to a restaurant that held a special connection to Stanley Tucci. "I always enjoy making movies, but the best part might have been this restaurant we all went to toward the end, where Stanley had cooked with the grandfather who owned the place, and it was wonderful," Berger shares. The camaraderie and shared appreciation for fine dining created a lasting impression, with Berger even calling the restaurant later to secure a table for himself and his mother, only to be greeted with open arms as "Stanley's friend."

Fiennes' Seal of Approval: Tucci's Culinary Expertise Paves the Way

Ralph Fiennes, who stars alongside Tucci in "Conclave," echoes the sentiment, acknowledging the importance of Tucci's culinary prowess in ensuring a smooth filming experience. "But you have to have Stanley Tucci to make it all go smoothly," Fiennes remarks with a smile, hinting at the possibility of the two actors reuniting for Tucci's upcoming gastronomic TV adventure, "The Heart of Italy." The shared love of food and the ability to navigate the culinary landscape of Rome seem to have been a unifying force for the cast and crew, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the filmmaking process.

Exploring the Intersection of Food, Faith, and Filmmaking

The connection between food, faith, and filmmaking runs deeper than just the shared pleasures of the palate. As Fiennes delves into the complexities of his character, Cardinal Lawrence, he reflects on the role of faith and its relationship to the human experience. "My character doesn't want the job (of being pope) and confesses to a friend that he has a problem with prayer, and that feels like an honest admission," Fiennes shares. "He's having a crisis of faith, and feels it's important to have questions, not to be locked into the certitude of dogma." This exploration of the nuances of faith mirrors the film's broader themes, where the power struggles and personal struggles within the Vatican are brought to the forefront.

Capturing the Quiet Intensity of Faith on the Silver Screen

Director Edward Berger faced the challenge of translating Fiennes' introspective performance into a captivating cinematic experience. "Ralph's role is a quiet one, so it's played mostly behind his eyes," Berger explains. "I was always struck by the miracle of that, as you can see his thoughts unfolding" without the need for excessive dialogue. This delicate balance between the external and the internal, the visible and the invisible, is a testament to Berger's directorial vision and Fiennes' masterful acting, allowing the audience to engage with the profound questions of faith that the film explores.

Tucci's Culinary Expertise Enhances the Cinematic Experience

While the film's themes delve into the complexities of faith and power, the presence of Stanley Tucci's culinary expertise adds a layer of authenticity and sensory delight to the overall cinematic experience. Fiennes acknowledges the importance of Tucci's involvement, stating, "But you have to have Stanley Tucci to make it all go smoothly." Tucci's deep understanding of Italian cuisine and his personal connections within the Roman culinary scene not only enriched the filming process but also contributed to the film's ability to transport the audience to the heart of the Vatican and the streets of Rome.

Exploring the Parallels between Faith and Filmmaking

As Fiennes delves into the complexities of his character's faith, he draws parallels between the journey of faith and the art of filmmaking. "Who was this guy Jesus, who surely preached in a simple robe and sandals in a desert landscape, under the occupation of Rome?" he ponders. "If I take away all the carapace of the churches and the paintings and you go, 'Whoa, whoa, whoa, who was that guy?' He had a message to help people lead their lives with a sense of purpose." This introspective approach to the character's faith mirrors the director's own journey in crafting a cinematic experience that challenges the audience to question their own beliefs and assumptions.

Embracing the Unexpected: Berger's Directorial Approach

Director Edward Berger's approach to filmmaking is equally intriguing, as he embraces the unexpected and allows his actors to bring their own unique perspectives to the table. Fiennes recounts Berger's openness to the creative process, stating, "What's great about Edward is he loves to take on films that challenge him, and he is so open to whatever is happening on the day." This willingness to let the actors' instincts and interpretations shape the final product aligns with Berger's desire to create a cinematic experience that is both thought-provoking and visually captivating.

Honoring the Legacy of Cinematic Masters

As "Conclave" steamrolls towards its striking conclusion, Berger's directorial vision draws inspiration from the greats of the past. "I wanted a movie like that," he says, referring to the procedural films of the legendary director Alan J. Pakula, such as "The Parallax View" and "All the President's Men." This homage to the cinematic masters of the past serves as a testament to Berger's commitment to crafting a film that not only explores the complexities of faith and power but also pays tribute to the rich tradition of political thrillers that have captivated audiences for decades.