Pope's Historic Audience with Hollywood Elite
In a significant event bridging faith and film, Pope Leo XIV hosted a special audience at the Vatican on Saturday 15 November 2025. He welcomed a constellation of Hollywood talent, including directors Spike Lee and Greta Gerwig, alongside actor Cate Blanchett and dozens of other film industry luminaries.
The gathering, held in a frescoed Vatican audience hall, was orchestrated by the Vatican's culture ministry to celebrate cinema's unique power to inspire and unite people across the globe.
A Call for Authentic and Inclusive Storytelling
Addressing the assembled stars, the Pope delivered a powerful message, encouraging them to use their art as a force for good. He described film as "a popular art in the noblest sense, intended for and accessible to all."
"When cinema is authentic, it does not merely console, but challenges," he told the captivated audience. "It articulates the questions that dwell within us, and sometimes, even provokes tears that we did not know we needed to express." He placed a particular emphasis on the necessity of including marginalised voices in cinematic narratives.
The Pope also expressed concern for the film industry's future, acknowledging the global decline of cinemas. He appealed directly to institutions, urging them not to give up on these vital social and cultural hubs.
A Personal Connection and Lasting Impressions
The audience held special meaning for the 70-year-old, Chicago-born Pontiff, the first American pope in history. Having grown up during Hollywood's heyday, he revealed his four favourite films just this week: "It's a Wonderful Life," "The Sound of Music," "Ordinary People," and "Life Is Beautiful."
His enthusiasm was palpable. In a rare move for large audiences, Pope Leo spent nearly an hour after the formal event, amiably greeting and chatting with each participant.
The stars were visibly moved. Spike Lee, who said he was surprised to be invited, presented the Pope with a custom New York Knicks jersey featuring the number 14 and Leo's name. Lee later joked with reporters that he had pointed out the Knicks now feature three players from the Pope's alma mater, Villanova University.
Cate Blanchett found the Pope's comments profoundly inspiring. She noted his understanding of cinema's power to transcend borders and explore difficult subjects without creating division. "Sitting in the dark with strangers is a way in which we can reconnect to what unites us rather than what divides us," she reflected, echoing the Pontiff's sentiments on the communal cinema experience.
The event concluded with a luncheon reception in the halls of the Vatican apostolic palace, marking a memorable day of dialogue between the spiritual and creative worlds.
