Pope Leo XIV held an audience with various figures from the Hollywood film industry at the Vatican. Among those present were actors Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, and Monica Bellucci, as well as director Spike Lee.
Papal Address
During the gathering, Pope Leo XIV encouraged actors and directors to continue their work as "pilgrims of the imagination," emphasizing cinema's potential to "bring hope." He also addressed a perceived "troubling decline" in cinema attendance.
Speaking in Italian from the Clementine Hall, Pope Leo praised cinema for its capacity to entertain, educate, and "amaze." He urged filmmakers to confront "the world's wounds," listing issues such as violence, poverty, exile, loneliness, addiction, and forgotten wars. The Pope stated that "Good cinema does not exploit pain; it recognizes and explores it."
Context and Attendees
This event occurred six months after Leo XIV, the first North American Pope, was elected. His public style is generally described as quieter than his predecessor, Francis, making this high-profile engagement a notable public appearance. Spike Lee characterized the gathering as a "great day" and the first of its kind at the Vatican.
The list of attendees included Viggo Mortensen, Chris Pine, and filmmaker Gus Van Sant. Italian industry figures such as Gianni Amelio and Giuseppe Tornatore were also present. The Vatican previously disclosed Pope Leo's favorite films, which include The Sound of Music, It's a Wonderful Life, and Life is Beautiful.
Support for the Film Industry
Amid industry challenges, including a recent Hollywood strike and funding pressures in Italy, Pope Leo XIV voiced support for the film sector. He specifically acknowledged the "quiet dedication" of individuals working behind the scenes, receiving applause for these remarks.