Pope Leo XIV held a meeting with several prominent Hollywood figures, including Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, and Monica Bellucci. The Pope appealed to these artists to continue their roles as “pilgrims of the imagination,” emphasizing the importance of their work in providing hope. This audience marks an effort by the Catholic Church to foster greater engagement with the broader cultural sphere.
During the gathering in the Clementine Hall, the Pope expressed concern over a perceived decline in cinema attendance. He highlighted the essential role of filmmakers in attempting to portray difficult social issues, stating that “good cinema does not exploit pain; it recognizes and explores it.” He urged the artists to address themes such as violence, poverty, and loneliness through their work.
Pope Leo XIV, who became the first North American pope six months prior, received mixed reactions regarding his engagement style compared to his predecessor, Pope Francis, known for his charismatic approach. Leo’s quieter demeanor was showcased in this significant interaction with the film industry, which also featured notable directors such as Spike Lee and Gus Van Sant.
The Pope discussed the challenges faced by the film industry, particularly following a recent Hollywood strike and funding concerns in Italy. He encouraged institutions to work together to affirm the cultural value of cinema, which he referred to as the “beating heart of communities.”
After delivering a brief speech, the Pope met individually with attendees. Blanchett presented him with a bracelet symbolizing solidarity with displaced individuals, while Spike Lee gifted him a New York Knicks shirt. The Pope’s call for filmmakers to inspire audiences resonated with attendees, prompting reflection on the industry’s societal role.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cdxr5drrpqxo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss