Pope Leo XVI Shares Favorite Films Ahead of Vatican Event

Pope Leo XVI has made headlines by sharing his favorite films ahead of a significant Vatican event. As part of the Vatican's Jubilee celebration, which occurs every 25 years, Pope Leo is set to host a gathering called World of Cinema, featuring numerous notable actors and directors. According to The Seattle Times, some of the celebrities expected to attend include Cate Blanchett, Adam Scott, Chris Pine, Viggo Mortensen, and directors like Judd Apatow and Spike Lee. This event is a testament to the Vatican's outreach to the film industry and its desire to connect with contemporary culture.

In a video interview with Variety, Pope Leo revealed his four favorite films: Frank Capra's "It's a Wonderful Life" from 1946, Robert Wise's "The Sound of Music" from 1965, Robert Redford's "Ordinary People" from 1980, and Roberto Benigni's "Life Is Beautiful" from 1997. This selection of films, which embodies themes of kindness, redemption, and the human experience, aligns with the Pope's vision of promoting human values through artistic creativity. The Vatican's statement highlighted Pope Leo's intention to deepen the dialogue between the church and the world of cinema, exploring how film can contribute to the church's mission.

The Jubilee, a rare tradition of penance and forgiveness, began last December and will conclude in early January. This gathering is part of a broader initiative promoted by the Vatican's culture and education departments. The new Pope, who is the first from the United States, has a history of engaging with the arts and media. In recent weeks, he has met with actor Robert De Niro and had previous visits with other stars, including Al Pacino and Martin Scorsese. This approach echoes the efforts of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who had a longstanding interest in arts and culture, particularly through initiatives like Scholas Occurrentes, aimed at youth engagement in creative projects.

Pope Leo's film choices have drawn attention not only for their nostalgic value but also for their relevance in discussions about morality and the human condition, making them fitting selections for a religious leader. His interest in cinema reflects a modern approach to engagement with younger audiences, demonstrating how faith can intersect with popular culture. As the Vatican prepares for this notable event, the dialogue between faith and the arts continues to evolve, highlighting the importance of storytelling in shaping human values.

The World of Cinema event promises to be a landmark moment for the Vatican, showcasing a blend of spirituality and creativity. As Pope Leo XVI takes this significant step, the implications for the Catholic Church's relationship with the film industry and contemporary society are profound, potentially influencing how faith is perceived in the context of modern media.