Ahead of an upcoming meeting between famous Hollywood celebrities and the Pope this weekend, the Vatican has disclosed Pope Leo XIV’s preferred movies. The pontiff, notable as the first American pope, is preparing to host a group that is expected to include Cate Blanchett, Adam Scott, Chris Pine, Spike Lee, and George Miller. The Vatican, in a statement about the event, unveiled Pope Leo’s top film choices, which encompass the 1946 classic “It’s a Wonderful Life,” “The Sound of Music,” “Life Is Beautiful,” and “Ordinary People.”
Although the first three movies are commonly recognized for their uplifting and heartwarming narratives, the addition of “Ordinary People” has raised eyebrows due to its more serious themes. This 1980 film, which marked the directorial debut of the late Robert Redford, depicts a family dealing with one son’s suicide attempt and another son’s tragic death. The movie, starring Timothy Hutton, Donald Sutherland, and Mary Tyler Moore, clinched four Oscars, including Best Picture. Set in the Pope’s home state of Illinois, the film concludes with a ray of hope before the end credits roll.
Prior to the arrival of Hollywood luminaries, the Vatican expressed the pontiff’s eagerness to engage in deeper conversations with the film industry, exploring how artistic creativity can contribute to the Church’s mission and the promotion of human values. While the forthcoming gathering is significant, it is not the first time Pope Leo has interacted with Hollywood stars. Earlier this year, he met with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino in separate meetings.
Reflecting on his encounter, De Niro commented to CNN, “He’s a good guy. Let’s put it that way, simply. I was very, very happy to meet him. And I was lucky to have two of my children meet him too, and we were all together.” Pope Leo’s warm reception of Hollywood personalities at the Vatican follows his recent criticism of President Donald Trump’s treatment of migrants in the USA.
During a statement outside the papal retreat at Castel Gandolfo, the pontiff expressed his concerns about individuals in the U.S. who have been significantly impacted by Trump’s stringent immigration policies. Notably, Pope Leo’s remarks have drawn attention as he typically refrains from commenting on specific internal policies of individual nations. Catholic historian Austen Ivereigh emphasized that Pope Leo’s comments signal a departure from his predecessor, Pope Francis, in style but not in core teachings and priorities. He remarked, “He’s very much a continuation.”