Naturally, whatever Pope Leo XIV, the head of the Roman Catholic Church, says becomes a global talking point. Now, even more so, as he has revealed his all-time favorite films in a recent conversation with Variety. The Pope’s selection reflects an appreciation for works that have become both cultural landmarks and cinematic touchstones, films that, to borrow the words of Martin Scorsese, embody what “absolute cinema” can be.
The first film mentioned by him is widely regarded as one of the best Christmas movies ever made, Frank Capra’s 1946 classic It’s a Wonderful Life. No wonder, in 1998, the American Film Institute named It’s a Wonderful Life the 11th greatest American movie of all time. Next on Pope Leo XIV’s list was a universally beloved musical, The Sound of Music (1965), starring Julie Andrews. It is hardly surprising that the film went on to win five Academy Awards, as it so thoroughly deserved to.
The Pope also cited Ordinary People (1980), a family drama that explores grief and healing within a wealthy American household. The film is often hailed as a gold standard for cinematic portrayals of mental health and emotional vulnerability. Finally, the Pontiff named the Italian masterpiece La Vita è Bella (Life Is Beautiful), a moving World War II film that balances tragedy and humor in its portrayal of a father’s love for his son. After all, tragedy and comedy are often two faces of the same truth.
It was also reported by The New York Times yesterday that Pope Leo XIV is set to meet with several renowned actors in the coming days. According to the outlet, the Pope will hold an audience on November 15, 2025, with stars including Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, Viggo Mortensen, Alison Brie, Dave Franco, and Monica Bellucci. The gathering will also welcome acclaimed directors Spike Lee, George Miller, Giuseppe Tornatore, and Gus Van Sant.
The event is being organized by the Vatican’s Office of Culture. According to Variety, the Pope “has expressed his desire to deepen dialogue with the World of Cinema… exploring the possibilities that artistic creativity offers to the mission of the Church and the promotion of human values.” Just last week, the Holy Father met with veteran actor Robert De Niro and his daughters, Julian De Niro and Drena De Niro.
