Clubhouse Conversations — Conclave

In this episode, cinematographer Stéphane Fontaine, AFC is joined by interviewer Ellen Kuras, ASC to discuss his work on Conclave, a contemporary political thriller set in Vatican City.

Adapted from the novel by Robert Harris, Conclave begins in the wake of the pope’s death and follows Cardinal Thomas Lawrence (Ralph Fiennes) as he leads his fellow cardinals in the effort to elect a new pope. Lawrence gradually uncovers shocking secrets that could affect the future of the Church. The film is directed by Edward Berger and shot by Stéphane Fontaine, AFC.

In this interview, Fontaine discusses how he worked with Berger to create a political-conspiracy thriller; using light and shadow to convey themes of power and secrecy; how his choice of lenses and the Red V-Raptor camera contributed to an intimate yet epic feel; and how he collaborated with the production- and costume-design teams to craft a rich, atmospheric palette.

Stéphane Fontaine, AFC is a cinematographer whose features include the Camerimage Golden Frog nominee Ammonite, Jackie, Captain Fantastic, Rust and Bone and A Prophet.

Ellen Kuras, ASC is a cinematographer and director. Her cinematography credits include Pretend It’s a City, David Byrne’s American Utopia, Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Summer of Sam. Her directing credits include the feature Lee and the Oscar-nominated documentary The Betrayal (Nerakhoon), which she also shot.

You’ll find all episodes in our ASC Clubhouse Conversations discussion series here.