In an unprecedented move, Pope Leo XIV is preparing to welcome a constellation of Hollywood's biggest names to the Vatican for a special audience this weekend. The event, announced by the Vatican on Monday, signals a significant effort by the first American pontiff to forge stronger ties with the global film industry.
A Star-Studded Guest List
The Vatican confirmed that approximately three dozen Hollywood figures will attend the gathering. The illustrious guest list includes acclaimed actors such as Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, and Adam Scott, alongside Oscar-winning directors Spike Lee, George Miller, and Gus Van Sant. They will be joined by actors Alison Brie, Dave Franco, and Viggo Mortensen, as well as directors Joanna Hogg, Tony Kaye, and Julie Taymor.
A Vatican statement elaborated that Pope Leo "has expressed his desire to deepen dialogue with the World of Cinema", with the aim of "exploring the possibilities that artistic creativity offers to the mission of the Church and the promotion of human values." While high-ranking cardinals are typical at papal events, an assembly of this many entertainment industry leaders is a rare occurrence.
Building on a Precedent and Revealing Tastes
This is not the first time the Vatican has reached out to the entertainment world. The late Pope Francis hosted comedians including Conan O'Brien, Stephen Colbert, and Jimmy Fallon in June 2024. Pope Leo's initiative, however, appears to be a more formal and extensive engagement with cinematic artistry.
In a personal touch ahead of the event, the Vatican disclosed four of Pope Leo's favourite films, offering a glimpse into his cinematic preferences: the classics It's a Wonderful Life, The Sound of Music, Ordinary People, and Life Is Beautiful.
Part of a Larger Holy Year Context
The Saturday audience is being organised by the Vatican's culture office as part of the Church's ongoing Holy Year celebrations. This event continues a pattern of outreach under Pope Leo, who recently hosted the legendary actor Robert De Niro at the Vatican.
De Niro's visit concluded with a handshake and photos with the Pope. During his 48-hour trip to Rome, the actor was also presented with the city's highest honour, the Lupa Capitolina, by Mayor Roberto Gualtieri. "Rome is more than a city; it's a living work of art," De Niro remarked, adding that the recognition was particularly moving given his family's Italian roots.
This unique convergence of faith and film highlights Pope Leo's distinctive approach to his papacy, using the universal language of cinema to further the Church's dialogue with contemporary culture.
