Flick Fix- Conclave and High and Low (1963) -12/11/24

We begin with the brand-new political thriller Conclave, a tension-filled drama set behind the locked doors of the Vatican. As the cardinals gather to choose the next pope, secrets, alliances, and betrayals bubble to the surface. Austin dives into the film’s exploration of power dynamics, faith, and the human cost of ambition, breaking down its stellar performances and provocative narrative. Does Conclave rise to the occasion, or does it falter under its own weight?

Then, we shift gears to Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 masterpiece, High and Low. This classic crime drama tells the harrowing tale of a wealthy businessman whose family is thrust into chaos when a kidnapping goes terribly wrong. Austin takes a closer look at how Kurosawa masterfully balances personal anguish with societal critique, crafting a story that’s as poignant as it is thrilling.

Music Heard:

Clint Mansell – The Last Man

Volker Bertelmann - You Should Be Careful

Masaru Sato - High and Low

Masaru Sato - Goyokin