According to Vatican News on 15/11, the event was part of the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year, which occurs once every 25 years. Over 100 film industry professionals attended the audience at the Apostolic Palace.

The Vatican stated the meeting aimed to expand dialogue with the world of cinema and explore how artistic creation can contribute to the Church’s mission.

During his speech, the Pope spoke about cinema’s power to entertain, educate, and evoke emotions. He also expressed concern over the 8.8% decline in global movie ticket sales in 2024, equivalent to 500 million fewer tickets compared to 2023.

Pope Leo XIV shakes hands with actress Cate Blanchett in the Sala Clementina (Vatican). Photo: Reuters

Pope Leo XIV shakes hands with actress Cate Blanchett in the Sala Clementina (Vatican). Photo: Reuters

The Pope likened cinema to a "workshop of hope," where people can rediscover themselves and the meaning of life amid the turbulence of the times. Cinemas and theaters are cultural spaces that must be preserved to enhance the spiritual lives of communities.

"Cinema is not merely a screen; it is a crossroads of aspirations, memories, and questions. It is an emotional journey where light penetrates darkness and dialogue meets silence. As stories unfold, our minds are nourished, our imaginations expand, and even pain can find new meaning," he stated.

The Pope also noted that filmmaking is a collective effort, something no one can create alone. He acknowledged the roles of actors, directors, and those working behind the camera, recognizing their crucial contributions to the success of every film.

Pope Leo XIV during his audience with film artists at the Vatican. Photo: Vatican Media

Pope Leo XIV during his audience with film artists at the Vatican. Photo: Vatican Media

Following the speech, artists greeted the Pope and presented him with gifts. Director Spike Lee brought a New York Knicks basketball jersey emblazoned with "Pope Leo" and the number 14, corresponding to his papal name. Australian actress Cate Blanchett, serving as a goodwill ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), gifted the Pope a blue bracelet, symbolizing solidarity with vulnerable people.

Actress Cate Blanchett described the Pope’s message as a powerful reminder. "His words today encourage us not to shy away from difficult stories and loss. He also urged us to continue to dedicate ourselves and inspire audiences."

Pope Leo XIV, 70 years old, was elected head of the Roman Catholic Church on 8/5. He is the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church and the first American Pope in history.

Previously, he spent much of his career as a missionary in South America. He served as Bishop of the Diocese of Chiclayo, northwest Peru, from 2015 to 2023. In addition to his American citizenship, he became a naturalized Peruvian citizen in 2015.

Before the meeting, the Vatican announced the Pope’s four favorite films: The Sound of Music by Robert Wise, It's a Wonderful Life by Frank Capra, Ordinary People by Robert Redford, and Life is Beautiful by Roberto Benigni.

By Que Chi (according to Reuters, Vatican News)