Pope Leo XIV urges Cate Blanchett and Monica Bellucci to support global appeals

Pope Leo XIV emphasized the need to preserve the art of cinema in an era of rapid digitalization. Among the guests were global stars Cate Blanchett, Monica Bellucci, Chris Pine, and director Spike Lee.

He noted that the film industry is facing one of its most difficult periods: box office revenues in many countries have not returned to pre-pandemic levels, and local cinemas continue to close. He stressed that theaters are important spaces for shared cultural experience, increasingly pushed aside by streaming platforms and personalized content algorithms.

"Cinemas are experiencing a troubling decline. Many say the very art of cinema is now at risk," the Pope said, urging society and the film industry to defend its social value.

Leo XIV said that in its 130-year history, cinema has become more than entertainment; it is a vital medium for exploring human experience. At the same time, he warned against the power of algorithms that reward repetition and create a closed loop of similar stories.

"The logic of algorithms tries to multiply what already works. But true art reveals what is still possible," he said, calling on creators not to fear "slowness, silence, and difference" in their work.

He also highlighted cinema’s responsibility to address violence, war, poverty, and loneliness honestly: "A good film does not exploit pain - it examines and acknowledges it."

After the speech, the Pope greeted guests personally. Spike Lee presented him with a custom New York Knicks basketball jersey marked "Pope Leo 14."

Ahead of the meeting, the Vatican published a list of the Pope’s favorite films, including The Sound of Music, It’s a Wonderful Life, Ordinary People, and Life Is Beautiful.

Recently, Pope Leo XIV also held a nearly three-hour meeting with survivors of clergy sexual abuse from Belgium, who shared the trauma they continue to face.