A host of Hollywood celebrities, including Cate Blanchett, Monica Bellucci, and Spike Lee, will meet Pope Leo at the Vatican on Saturday, in what observers say is a move to boost the pontiff's profile. The gathering is the first major cultural event for the 70-year-old pope, who is the first US pope in Catholic history.
The Vatican stated that the pope aims to deepen dialogue with the film industry, exploring how artistic creativity can serve the church's mission and promote human values. Before the audience, Pope Leo revealed his four favorite films: The Sound of Music, It's a Wonderful Life, Ordinary People, and Life Is Beautiful.
The meeting is part of the jubilee of artists and the world of culture during the Catholic church's holy year. However, commentators note it also serves to promote Pope Leo, who has been in office for just over six months and is considered more low-key than his predecessor, Pope Francis.
Vatican correspondent Hendro Munsterman said Leo lacks Francis's charisma but has his own charm. The Vatican has been working on Leo's image since his election, hosting tennis star Jannik Sinner and actor Al Pacino in recent months. Observers view the celebrity audience as a smart move to connect the pope with popular culture.
Severina Bartonitschek, a Vatican correspondent, described the event as positive PR for both sides, noting that it generates attention for the actors and allows the pope to establish topics in his speeches. She added that such events produce great photos and positivity for the Vatican, which often faces media focus on scandals.
