Pope Leo XIV Celebrates Cinema, Promotes Inclusion with Stars

Pope Leo XIV recently hosted a special audience in Vatican City, welcoming a multitude of Hollywood figures, including Spike Lee, Cate Blanchett, and Greta Gerwig. The Pope emphasized the importance of using film to amplify marginal voices in society. He described cinema as “a popular art in the noblest sense, intended for and accessible to all,” highlighting its potential to promote inclusivity.

The audience took place in a beautifully frescoed hall, organized by the Vatican’s culture ministry. This event follows similar gatherings hosted by Pope Francis, reflecting a continuous engagement with artists and cultural influencers. For Pope Leo XIV, the gathering held personal significance, as he is the first American pope, with roots in Chicago during Hollywood’s golden age.

New Documentary Highlights Selena’s Legacy

In another cultural development, Netflix is set to release a documentary titled “Selena Y Los Dinos: A Family’s Legacy” on March 1, 2024. The film offers an intimate look at the life of Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, featuring never-before-seen archival footage curated from her family’s personal collection. Directed by Isabel Castro and produced by Selena’s siblings Suzette Quintanilla and AB Quintanilla III, the documentary aims to further Selena’s cultural legacy and introduce her story to new audiences.

Educational Initiative Brings History to Life

In an effort to educate young minds, filmmaker Ken Burns and “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda recently conducted a history lesson for hundreds of high school students at Trinity Church in New York City. The event, which coincided with the premiere of Burns’ new documentary “The American Revolution,” emphasizes the importance of sharing stories from diverse perspectives. The documentary features a notable ensemble of narrators and historians, aiming to broaden the understanding of America’s past.

Fashion and Feminism Intertwine in ‘Palm Royale’

The Apple TV comedy “Palm Royale” has made a significant impact with its vibrant storytelling and stunning visuals. Starring Kristen Wiig as Maxine, the series immerses viewers in the world of 1969 Palm Beach high society. Costume designer Alix Friedberg has crafted an impressive array of outfits, with 50-60% of the costumes in Season 2 being original designs. This attention to detail enhances the characters’ development and the overall narrative.

Changes Ahead for SAG Awards

The Screen Actors Guild Awards will officially change their name to the Actor Awards starting in 2026. Announced to the SAG-AFTRA board, the rebranding aligns the award with its iconic statuette, “The Actor.” The first ceremony under the new name will take place on March 1, with Netflix continuing to stream the event, as it has since 2023. The SAG Awards, established in 1995, have become a staple of Hollywood’s awards season, and this change aims to clarify the event’s identity for audiences.

Documentary Explores Life and Legacy of Andrea Gibson

A new documentary titled “Come See Me in the Good Light” captures the life of Andrea Gibson, a celebrated poet who passed away in July at the age of 49. The film, now streaming on Apple TV, documents Gibson’s journey with terminal cancer, focusing on their life alongside partner Megan Falley. Filmmaker Ryan White describes the project as a blend of humor and deep emotion, aiming to celebrate life rather than dwell on death.

These varied cultural developments reflect a vibrant intersection of art, history, and personal stories, showcasing how film and performance continue to shape and enrich society.