The Vatican recently disclosed a list of the Pope’s favorite movies, showcasing the timeless classic ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ in the top spot. This revelation coincides with an upcoming meeting between Pope Leo and 30 Hollywood celebrities. ‘It’s a Wonderful Life,’ a heartwarming Christmas film from 1946 directed by Frank Capra, follows the story of a man contemplating suicide who is persuaded otherwise by his guardian angel.
One notable selection on the list is Robert Redford’s 1980 film, “Ordinary People,” which delves into a family’s struggle to cope with the loss of one son and the other’s attempted suicide. Despite its dark themes, the movie offers a glimmer of hope in its conclusion, resonating with Pope Leo as it unfolds in his home state of Illinois.
Transitioning to a lighter note, the list includes the beloved musical “The Sound of Music” from 1965, recounting the true tale of an Austrian nun who falls in love and escapes the Nazis with her family, singing memorable tunes from the Rodgers and Hammerstein repertoire. Leo’s cinematic journey then takes a poignant turn with “Life is Beautiful,” a 1997 film by Roberto Benigni portraying a father and son navigating a Nazi concentration camp.
These cinematic preferences serve as engaging conversation starters as Pope Leo prepares to host 30 actors at the Vatican. A Vatican spokesperson emphasized the aim to foster dialogue with the film industry, exploring how artistic expression aligns with the Church’s mission and human values. Notable guests include Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, Alison Brie, Dave Franco, Viggo Mortensen, Spike Lee, George Miller, and Gus Van Sant among others.