Golden Globe Winner, Peter Straughan, Firmly Defends His Controversial Ending of ‘Conclave’
Peter Straughan, the writer of Conclave, recently addressed criticisms surrounding the film’s ending, especially after it stirred quite a debate.
The movie, which centers around a group of cardinals selecting a new pope after the previous one’s death, takes a bold narrative turn when the newly elected Pope, Cardinal Benitez, is revealed to be intersex. This plot twist has sparked a fair share of controversy.
During the Golden Globes press conference, Straughan, who won Best Screenplay for Conclave, took the opportunity to defend his film’s ending. Some had suggested that the film might be anti-Catholic, given its critical lens on the church’s internal politics and the shocking conclusion. Straughan, however, strongly disagreed with this interpretation.
In a short talk with ScreenRant, Straughan defended his version of the ending firmly:
I don’t think the film is anti-Catholic. I was brought up Catholic. I was an altar boy. I think the core message of Conclave is about the church always having to re-find its spiritual core, because it deals so much with power. That’s always been a careful, difficult balance. To me, that was a very central Catholic ideal that I was brought up with. I stand by it.
Source: ScreenRant
Straughan’s remarks highlighted his personal connection to the church and his intention to delve into its complexities rather than criticize it outright. The film’s unexpected ending has drawn both praise and criticism, with some appreciating its bold storytelling and others finding it provocative.
However, Straughan’s award at the Golden Globes might suggest that the narrative risks he took were worth it. His win acknowledges his ability to craft a compelling and thought-provoking screenplay, even if it challenges some viewers’ comfort zones.
For those who haven’t yet seen Conclave, the movie offers a mix of suspense, intrigue, and a daring look at the hidden corridors of power within the Vatican. The Golden Globes win for Best Screenplay further cements Straughan’s reputation as a writer unafraid to tackle challenging themes in unique ways.
Whether or not you agree with the ending, it’s hard to deny that Conclave has captured the attention of the film world in a big way.
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