Ralph Fiennes Aims for Elusive Oscar with ‘Conclave’ Performance

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Ralph Fiennes, one of Hollywood’s most versatile and enduring actors, is once again in the running for an Academy Award, this time for his nuanced performance in Edward Berger‘s Vatican drama Conclave. Fiennes, who has been nominated for three Oscars but never won, plays Cardinal Thomas Lawrence, a stoic yet deeply conflicted figure overseeing the papal election process. The film, released on October 25, 2024, has garnered critical acclaim, with Fiennes’ understated portrayal earning particular praise.

Fiennes, 62, first gained widespread recognition in the 1990s with standout roles in Schindler's List, Quiz Show, and The English Patient, the latter of which earned him his second Oscar nomination. Over the past three decades, he has seamlessly transitioned between blockbuster franchises like Harry Potter and James Bond, indie darlings such as The Hurt Locker, and even animated features like The Lego Movie. Despite his consistent excellence, the Academy has yet to award him its highest honor.

In Conclave, Fiennes delivers a performance that is both restrained and deeply affecting. As Cardinal Lawrence, he navigates the intricate politics of the Vatican while grappling with personal grief and a crisis of faith. “It’s a lot for an actor to shoulder, but Fiennes does it beautifully,” said one critic. “He conveys his struggle with his faith and his grief in largely internal ways, communicating a great deal through his eyes, his voice, or a subtle gesture.”

However, Fiennes faces stiff competition in this year’s Best Actor category. His fellow nominees include Timothée Chalamet, who portrays Bob Dylan in a music biopic, and Sebastian Stan, who plays Donald Trump in a political drama. Adrien Brody, who won the Golden Globe for his role in The Brutalist, is also considered a frontrunner. Historically, the Academy has favored showier performances over subtle ones, which could work against Fiennes.

Despite the odds, Fiennes’ career remains a testament to his versatility and dedication. From Shakespearean theater to blockbuster franchises, he has consistently delivered memorable performances. “It’s Ralph Fiennes’ solar system,” one admirer quipped. “We just live in it.” Whether or not he takes home the Oscar this year, Fiennes’ legacy as one of cinema’s most accomplished actors is already secure.