Washington, USA – Pope Leo XIV received a number of Hollywood’s biggest stars, including Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen and Monica Bellucci.
This meeting was described as a new step by the Catholic Church to open
up to the global film industry and enhance its cultural presence.
The meeting took place in the Clementine Hall, adorned
with the famous murals, inside the Vatican.
During the meeting, the Pope called on artists to continue
in their role as “pilgrims of the imagination”.
human suffering
He emphasized that cinema has a unique power to “spread hope”
and convey stories that reflect human suffering and challenges.
He expressed concern about the “alarming decline” in cinema attendance worldwide.
He stressed that cinema is not just entertainment, but a platform
for education and building bridges between peoples.
Pope Leo XIV said in his address: “Violence, poverty, displacement,
loneliness, addiction, and forgotten wars
These are issues that need to be told. Good cinema doesn’t exploit pain,
but rather sheds light on it and helps us understand it.
The meeting came just six months after the election
of the first pope from North America.
Elite filmmakers
Amid talk of his efforts to find his own unique style compared
to his predecessor Francis, who was known for his charisma and striking stances.
In addition to big names like Chris Pine and director Gus Van Sant,
the man behind films like Milk and Good Will Hunting,
In addition to big names like Chris Pine and director Gus Van Sant,
the man behind films like Milk and Good Will Hunting,
Alongside a select group of Italian filmmakers, including Giuseppe Tornatore.
During his speech, the Pope stressed the importance of protecting cinemas,
describing them as “the beating heart of societies.”
stars individually
He called on cultural institutions and governments to support this sector,
which faces significant challenges.
This comes after the recent strikes in Hollywood and funding problems in Europe.
The meeting concluded with the Pope giving his blessing to those present,
before he greeted the stars individually.
Cate Blanchett presented a symbolic gift of a handwoven bracelet
that she wears in support of displaced people.
Meanwhile, Spike gave me a New York Knicks jersey
with the number 14 and the Pope’s name on it.
