In a groundbreaking event at the Vatican, Pope Leo XIV convened an audience with prominent Hollywood figures, including Cate Blanchett, Viggo Mortensen, and Monica Bellucci. Addressing the gathering beneath the ornate frescoes of the Clementine Hall, the Pope lauded the film industry as a vital force for both entertainment and education, emphasizing its unique ability to inspire and amaze. He encouraged filmmakers to confront global challenges such as violence, poverty, and loneliness, urging them to narrate these ‘world’s wounds’ with sensitivity and depth. ‘Good cinema does not exploit pain; it recognizes and explores it,’ he asserted. This historic meeting marked a significant moment for the Catholic Church’s engagement with the arts and culture, as well as a show of support for an industry grappling with challenges like declining cinema attendance and funding constraints. The Pope also warned against the closure of cinemas, describing them as the ‘beating heart of communities.’ The event, hailed by director Spike Lee as a ‘great day,’ featured heartfelt exchanges, including Blanchett presenting the Pope with a woven bracelet symbolizing solidarity with displaced people and Lee gifting him a custom New York Knicks shirt. The gathering underscored Pope Leo’s commitment to fostering dialogue between faith and the arts, while highlighting his quieter, yet impactful, leadership style compared to his predecessor, Francis.