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Pope Leo XIV Reveals Movie Picks Before Hollywood Meeting

By Newby

A Unique Gathering at the Vatican

Pope Leo XIV is set to host a unique event that brings together some of the most prominent figures in the film and television industry. The gathering, which will take place at the Vatican on Saturday, promises to be an exciting occasion for both the attendees and the public. Among the notable names expected to attend are Spike Lee, Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, Chris Pine, Monica Bellucci, Wang Bing, George Miller, Marco Bellocchio, Gus Van Sant, and Abel Ferrara.

The Vatican has expressed its intention to use this opportunity to "deepen dialogue with the World of Cinema, and in particular with actors and directors." This initiative aims to explore "the possibilities that artistic creativity offers to the mission of the Church and the promotion of human values." The event is seen as a significant step towards bridging the gap between the Catholic Church and the world of cinema.

Pope Leo XIV's Favorite Films

Before the special audience at the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, the Chicago-born pontiff, who is the first pope from the US, shared four of his favorite films. These include:

  • It’s a Wonderful Life (1946) by Frank Capra
  • The Sound of Music (1965) by Robert Wise
  • Ordinary People (1980) by Robert Redford
  • Life Is Beautiful (1997) by Roberto Benigni

While some might have preferred more unconventional choices, such as The Exorcist or Mad Max: Fury Road, the selected classics are undeniably uplifting and thought-provoking. However, it is worth noting that the inclusion of The Sound of Music and Life Is Beautiful raises questions, given the Catholic Church's complex historical relationship with the Nazi regime and its inaction during the Holocaust.

Despite these considerations, the appeal of It’s a Wonderful Life remains undeniable. The film's themes of hope, community, and personal sacrifice continue to resonate with audiences around the world.

A Growing Connection with the Arts

This weekend’s event seems to signal a positive shift in Pope Leo XIV's approach to engaging with the arts. It is not the first time that the pontiff has met with Hollywood celebrities. Earlier this July, Al Pacino visited the Vatican alongside Andrea Iervolino, the Italian producer behind Maserati: The Brothers, a biopic on Italy’s legendary Maserati family. The film stars Pacino, Anthony Hopkins, and Andy Garcia.

Iervolino described the meeting as a moment of "profound spiritual and cultural inspiration, centered around shared values that lie at the heart of both the Catholic Church and the film: family unity, love, compassion, and the importance of contributing to the common good."

Pope Leo XIV also met with Robert De Niro last week. De Niro was in Rome being awarded the Lupa Capitolina, the city’s top honor.

The Yearlong Roman Catholic Church Jubilee

The event coincides with the yearlong Roman Catholic Church Jubilee, a rare tradition of penance and forgiveness that began last December and will conclude in early January 2026. This jubilee serves as a time for reflection, reconciliation, and renewal within the Catholic community. It highlights the Church's commitment to fostering a deeper connection with its followers and the broader society.