Pope Leo Engages Hollywood Icons at Vatican, Celebrating Cinema

Pope Leo welcomed a star-studded group of Hollywood figures to the Vatican on March 15, 2024, celebrating the unifying power of cinema. Among the attendees were acclaimed filmmakers and actors such as Spike Lee, Cate Blanchett, and Greta Gerwig, who gathered in a lavishly decorated audience hall to explore the role of film in society.

In his address, Pope Leo emphasized the importance of including marginalized voices in cinema, describing it as “a popular art in the noblest sense, intended for and accessible to all.” He articulated the transformative potential of authentic storytelling, noting, “When cinema is authentic, it does not merely console, but challenges.” The gathering, organized by the Vatican’s culture ministry, aimed to foster connections between the Catholic Church and the secular world, following similar engagements by his predecessor, Pope Francis.

Pope Leo, who made history as the first American pope, expressed a personal affinity for cinema, revealing his four favorite films: It’s a Wonderful Life, The Sound of Music, Ordinary People, and Life Is Beautiful. This week, he embraced the opportunity to interact with the guests, spending nearly an hour mingling with them—an unusual gesture for a pope during large gatherings.

Celebrating the Cultural Impact of Cinema

During his remarks, Pope Leo acknowledged the challenges facing the film industry, particularly the decline of cinemas that once served as vital community hubs. “I urge institutions not to give up, but to co-operate in affirming the social and cultural value of cinemas,” he stated, urging attendees to leverage their influence to revitalize this important medium.

Many celebrities left the audience feeling inspired. Spike Lee, who presented the pope with a basketball jersey from his favorite team, the Knicks, remarked on his surprise at being invited. The jersey displayed the number 14, representing the pope’s name. Lee humorously noted that while Pope Leo is a Chicago Bulls fan, the Knicks currently have players from his alma mater, Villanova University.

Blanchett highlighted the significance of the pope’s message, expressing admiration for his understanding of cinema’s role in addressing complex issues. “Filmmaking is about entertainment, but it’s about including voices that are often marginalized and not shying away from the pain and complexity that we’re all living through right now,” she stated. She believes that the experience of watching a film in a shared space can help reconnect individuals with shared humanity.

Building Bridges Through Art

The event concluded with a light luncheon reception in the Vatican Apostolic Palace, where attendees marveled at the historical significance of their surroundings. Blanchett noted that “sitting in the dark with strangers is a way in which we can reconnect to what unites us rather than what divides us.” Her comments reflected the gathering’s underlying theme: the capacity of cinema to transcend cultural and geographic boundaries.

Pope Leo’s engagement with Hollywood not only reflects his personal passion for film but also underscores the Vatican’s commitment to fostering dialogue with the global community. This historic audience serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of cinema and its potential to inspire change and unity in an increasingly divided world.