Pope Leo hosted a gathering of Hollywood luminaries at the Vatican, emphasizing the vital role of cinema in today’s turbulent world. The pontiff described film as a “workshop of hope,” addressing concerns about its decline amid rising digital distractions and changing viewing habits.
During his remarks, the pope noted that cinemas have been disappearing from urban areas, with box office revenues still lagging far behind pre-pandemic levels. “More than a few people are saying that the art of cinema and the cinematic experience are in danger,” he said. He urged industry institutions to collaborate in affirming the social and cultural value of film, stating that multiplexes in the United States and Canada have experienced their worst summer since 1981, disregarding the COVID-19 shutdown.
130 years after its inception, cinema is not merely a collection of moving images, according to Pope Leo. It has evolved into a medium capable of exploring humanity’s profound dilemmas. “Cinema is not just moving pictures; it sets hope in motion,” he explained. He described entering a theatre as “like crossing a threshold,” where imagination expands and even moments of pain can gain new significance.
The pope raised concerns about a culture increasingly driven by digital stimuli, arguing that this trend could lead to storytelling being reduced to formulaic plots dictated by algorithms. “The logic of algorithms tends to repeat what works, but art opens up what is possible,” he asserted. He encouraged filmmakers to embrace “slowness, silence, and difference” in their narratives, emphasizing the importance of confronting difficult themes like violence, war, and poverty. “Good cinema does not exploit pain; it recognizes and explores it,” he said.
Renowned actress Cate Blanchett, who attended the event, echoed the pope’s sentiments. “His Holiness’s words today were a real charge not to shy away from difficult, painful stories,” she stated. “He really urged us to go back into our day jobs and inspire people.”
The pope acknowledged not only the directors and actors present but also the multitude of behind-the-scenes contributors whose efforts are essential in filmmaking. He described the process as a “collective endeavor in which no one is self-sufficient.”
As the event concluded, guests had the opportunity to meet with the pontiff individually, presenting him with various tokens of appreciation. Notably, filmmaker Spike Lee gifted the pope a New York Knicks basketball shirt emblazoned with “Pope Leo 14.” Lee expressed his surprise at receiving an invitation, describing the experience as “a great day” in his many visits to Rome.
Ahead of the gathering, the Vatican released a list of four of Pope Leo’s favorite films, showcasing his appreciation for the cinematic art form. These included Robert Wise’s iconic musical The Sound of Music, Frank Capra’s classic feel-good film It’s a Wonderful Life, Robert Redford’s poignant drama Ordinary People, and Roberto Benigni’s heartwarming tale Life Is Beautiful.
The pope’s passionate call to action for the film industry highlights the importance of storytelling in challenging times, urging artists to harness their craft to inspire and uplift audiences globally.
