Robert Harris Reflects on ‘Conclave,’ Ralph Fiennes Ahead of the Oscars/ Newslooks/ As his novel-turned-film Conclave heads into Sunday’s Oscars with eight nominations, author Robert Harris reflects on its success. Though he’s not attending the ceremony, Harris is thrilled with the film’s recognition, praising Ralph Fiennes’ performance and Peter Straughan’s screenplay. The political thriller about a Vatican election has seen a surge in book sales, reigniting interest in Harris’ 2016 novel. With Conclave among the top contenders for Best Picture, Harris remains hopeful yet realistic about its chances, noting it has “crept up to second favorite.”
‘Conclave’ Oscar Run Quick Looks
- Robert Harris celebrates ‘Conclave’s’ success, with eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture.
- Harris praises Ralph Fiennes, calling his performance “extraordinary”.
- The film closely follows the book, boosting its sales worldwide.
- Harris visited the set, describing the recreated Sistine Chapel as “staggering.”
- The novel’s shocking twist remains divisive, with some readers “throwing the book across the room.”
- Harris won’t attend the Oscars, joking he’d rather not hear another film’s name at 4 a.m.
Robert Harris Reflects on ‘Conclave,’ Ralph Fiennes Ahead of the Oscars
Deep Look: Robert Harris Talks ‘Conclave’ and Its Oscar Journey
British author Robert Harris is enjoying the success of Conclave as the Vatican thriller heads into the Academy Awards with eight nominations, including Best Picture. Though Harris won’t be attending the Oscars, he’s delighted with the film’s recognition and the renewed interest in his 2016 novel.
“It makes a bit of a change from the quiet life of a novelist,” Harris said.
A Political Thriller That Captivated Hollywood
Conclave, inspired by the 2005 papal election, explores the secrecy and power struggles within the Vatican. The film, directed by Edward Berger, stars Ralph Fiennes, Stanley Tucci, and Isabella Rossellini, with a screenplay by Peter Straughan.
“I’ve always written about politics and power. This is the ultimate election—the leader of 1.3 billion people.”
Harris praised Fiennes’ portrayal of the film’s conflicted cardinal, noting how he conveyed inner turmoil without dialogue.
“His face registers every twist and turn. He’s on screen non-stop for two hours—it’s extraordinary.”
Visiting the Set: A Surreal Experience
Harris visited the Cinecittà studios in Rome, where a full-scale replica of the Sistine Chapel had been built for filming.
“It was staggering. Walking in, it felt like stepping into the real thing.”
Despite changes—such as renaming the main character from Lomeli to Lawrence—Harris had no complaints, especially since it meant Fiennes would star in the film.
“If that’s the price of having Ralph play him, I’m willing to pay it.”
The Novel’s Twist: Love It or Hate It
One of the most debated aspects of Conclave is its unexpected twist ending.
“Some readers throw the book across the room, but others gasp and love it.”
Harris insists the twist wasn’t added for shock value, but rather to challenge the Church’s assumptions.
“I wanted to ask a big question. It makes people talk. It challenges. That’s what I want to do.”
A Boost in Book Sales and Global Recognition
Since the film’s release, Conclave has climbed back into bestseller lists, even breaking into Amazon’s Top 20 in the US.
“That’s surprising for a book that old.”
Harris encourages audiences to read the book before seeing the film, as it delves deeper into the cardinal’s crisis of faith.
“If you liked the film, the book is like further reading.”
Skipping the Oscars, But Watching the Outcome
Despite Conclave’s success, Harris won’t stay up for the Oscars, preferring to wake up to the results.
“I don’t want to sit up all night and hear them say, ‘And the winner is… Anora at 4 a.m.’”
With Conclave gaining momentum in the awards race, Sunday night could bring an unexpected victory—but for Harris, the journey itself has been reward enough.
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