The Pope’s all-time favourite films have been revealed – with the list including one surprisingly dark choice.
Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, yesterday offered a glimpse into his cinematic tastes as the Vatican released his four top picks.
The head of the Catholic Church seems to be a fan of the sentimental with each film tugging at the heartstrings in its own unique way.
While most of the choices are uplifting, there was one pick however with a particularly sombre storyline.
According to The Vatican, the list is expected to be a talking point when the Pope welcomes around 30 Hollywood stars to the Vatican ‘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’.
1. It’s a Wonderful Life, 1946
It’s a Wonderful Life, directed by Frank Capra, stars James Stewart, whose character is saved by divine intervention
It might be no wonder this Christmas feel-good classic made the list as it offers a message of hope, with the protagonist talked out of taking his own life by a guardian angel.
Having grown up in 1950s America, the New York setting of the film may have seemed familiar to Leo.
The film, directed by Frank Capra, stars James Stewart, whose character is saved by a form of divine intervention.
2. The Sound of Music, 1965
It might not be surprising that Pope Leo features this happy and uplifting film on his favourite list.
The musical drama, directed by Robert Wise, follows Maria von Trapp’s experiences as governess to seven children, her eventual marriage, and family’s escape from Nazi horrors.
3. Life is Beautiful, 1997
This slightly more modern film, directed by Roberto Benigni, also documents a family’s experience at the hands of the Nazis – this time a father and son – in the form of a comedy-drama.
The Italian film has received widespread acclaim following its release, suggesting Pope Leo is not alone in his admiration of it.
4. Ordinary People, 1980
Completing the list is Robert Redford’s Ordinary People, which follows a family as they come to terms with the death of one son and attempted suicide of another
Guests at the Pope’s Hollywood Vatican event are expected to include actors Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, Alison Brie, Dave Franco, and Viggo Mortensen as well as the directors Spike Lee, George Miller and Gus Van Sant
Completing the list is Robert Redford’s Ordinary People, which follows a family as they come to terms with the death of one son and attempted suicide of another.
The darker film, like It’s a Wonderful Life, is also set in America – this time in Pope Leo’s home state Illinois.
It follows the lives of various characters as they battle their inner demons but does eventually offer a glimmer of hope.
Guests at the Pope’s Hollywood Vatican event include are expected to include actors Cate Blanchett, Chris Pine, Alison Brie, Dave Franco, and Viggo Mortensen as well as the directors Spike Lee, George Miller and Gus Van Sant.
It comes as Leo has already met Arnold Schwarzenegger – who attended a Vatican event about climate change last month and told the Pope he was an ‘action hero’ for his efforts at turning the Vatican into a carbon zero state.
