Ralph Fiennes has acknowledged that he has occasionally taken the “paycheck role” throughout his professional journey.
The esteemed British actor, currently featuring in the new religious and political drama Conclave, shared with Sky News that it is inherent in human nature for performers to “yield to cynicism” for “financial reward”—but this does not imply that the entire industry is in decline.
“I maintain hope that quality films can be produced that enrich our cultural existence, just like theater,” he stated. “However, do we experience moments of skepticism regarding its integrity, filled with corruption and opportunism? Have we indeed participated in projects merely for the paycheck that turned out to be lackluster?
“Yes. I mean, it’s possible to uphold our ideals, only to find ourselves yielding to cynicism and the lure of financial gain.”
Fiennes portrays Cardinal Lawrence. Pic: Philippe Antonello/Focus Features 2024
In Conclave, adapted from the novel by Robert Harris of the same title, Fiennes takes on the role of Cardinal Lawrence, the ecclesiastic tasked with selecting the next Pope and spiritual leader of the Catholic Church.
This film also features notable performances from Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Isabella Rossellini, and Lucian Msamati, and it is anticipated to achieve accolades in the upcoming months.
Fiennes, recognized for his Oscar-nominated performances in Schindler’s List and The English Patient, along with his embodiment of Lord Voldemort in the Harry Potter series, remarked that Conclave does not shy away from addressing the controversies enveloping the Catholic Church.
Fiennes as Cardinal Lawrence and Tucci as Cardinal Bellini. Pic: Focus Features 2024
The narrative profoundly explores human existence and the dilemmas presented when confronted with the pursuit of success, he indicated.
“I believe that Robert Harris’s literary work, along with the subsequent astute screenplay, approached this subject with a keen intellect; it’s not a simplistic critique of the Catholic Church. Instead, it engages with curiosity…
“There is undoubtedly corruption present. Countless transgressions have occurred, yet it also plays a role because the Catholic Church provides, in many ways, a form of support to communities. It serves as an essential foundation where community structures can thrive, so it is significant to open up and engage in these discussions.”
Isabella Rossellini portrays Sister Agnes. Pic: Focus Features 2024
Tucci, portraying another cardinal, expressed that the politically charged film serves as a reflection of the current global climate.
“Extremist viewpoints, be they political or religious, are gaining traction—just look at the situation in America,” remarked the actor. “Consequently, it is likely that many individuals, whether Catholics or deeply religious, could find some aspects of this narrative disconcerting.
“Conversely, others will simply appreciate it for what it represents—a captivating investigation into a complex process and this assembly of individuals.”
Stay updated with all the latest developments from the UK and around the globe by following Sky News
Rossellini, in her role as Sister Agnes, expressed her fascination with portraying the sole female character wielding authority amidst a “sea” of men.
This character observes as over a hundred senior clergymen, each with their own dubious histories, endeavor to elect the next Catholic leader, all while being cloistered from public scrutiny during the secretive electoral process.
“It is her duty to maintain silence, to refrain from opposing the cardinals,” Rossellini explained. Yet in this silence, “significant information and presence can be discerned.”
Conclave is currently in cinemas
