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In an initiative aimed at strengthening the connection between the Vatican and Hollywood, Pope Leo XIV has revealed his top four movie picks and announced an upcoming event featuring prominent entertainment figures at the Vatican this week.
Taking inspiration from Letterboxd, the Chicago-native Pope disclosed his favorite films in a new video. His choices include Frank Capra’s It’s A Wonderful Life, Robert Wise’s The Sound of Music, Robert Redford’s Ordinary People, and Roberto Benigni’s La Vita e Bella (Life is Beautiful), as reported by Variety.
According to a Vatican statement, the Pope aims to “enhance dialogue with the World of Cinema” by exploring the synergy between artistic expression and the Church’s mission to promote human values.
Pope Leo XIV, notably the first Pope from the United States, is set to meet with top actors and filmmakers on Saturday, November 15.
The gathering, to be held at the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, will feature stars such as Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, Alison Brie, Dave Franco, and Chris Pine, among many others.
Italian actresses Monica Bellucci, who starred as Mary Magdalene in Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, and Maria Grazia Cucinotta will also meet the pope, joined by filmmakers Spike lee, George Miller, Giuseppe Tornatore, Gus Van Sant and Giuseppe Tornatore.
This news comes just days after Pope Leo met with Robert De Niro, who received the Lupa Capitolina honor from the Mayor of Rome and was gifted a rosary by the pope.
All of Pope Leo XIV’s favorite films are available to stream or rent on Prime Video.
