Santa Barbara International Film Festival honors Actor Ralph Fiennes with Outstanding Performer of the Year Award
Fiennes joined a star-studded lineup of actors who have received the honor in previous years, including Bradley Cooper, Adam Driver, Margot Robbie, Jennifer Lawrence, and Heath Ledger.
"When you're behind the camera and sitting there, just thinking, ‘What do these people do? How do they do it?’ It’s such a magical experience to witness it—how they pull us in without words, just their eyes. It’s fantastic," Conclave director Edward Berger said.
As Fiennes took the stage at the Arlington Theatre, the room erupted in cheers, and the beloved actor received a standing ovation.
Your NewsChannel asked Fiennes how being raised Catholic prepared him for his role in Conclave.
"My uncle Nicholas, my mother’s brother, was also a theologian, and I have another uncle who was a Greek Orthodox priest," Fiennes said. "So my mom and we had—there were lots of intense discussions about believing or not believing around the table."
The film has received widespread acclaim, earning eight Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay. Fiennes himself is nominated for Best Actor in a Leading Role.
Fiennes has an impressive background in the film industry and is known for his roles in some of Hollywood’s most acclaimed films, including Schindler’s List, Clash of the Titans, The Grand Budapest Hotel, and the Harry Potter series.
"Conclave was fantastic. He did an incredible job. I mean, he just continues to evolve as one of the most incredible actors of our time," said festival attendee Jennifer Evans Gardner.
