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Pope Leo XIV defends the magic of theaters in a streaming-dominated world

A surprising advocate for the silver screen emerges. The pontiff’s plea to filmmakers and audiences could reshape how we value movies—and where we watch them.

This picture is clicked in an auditorium. The man in pink and white dress is standing near the...
This picture is clicked in an auditorium. The man in pink and white dress is standing near the podium and he is about to talk. Beside him, we see plants and beside that, we see chairs two chairs and on background we see a colorful wall.

Stars as 'Ambassadors of Humanity' - Pope Leo XIV defends the magic of theaters in a streaming-dominated world

Pope Leo XIV, aged 70, recently expressed his concern over the decline of movie theaters and the potential loss of the unique cinematic experience. The pontiff shared his thoughts during an audience attended by prominent figures from the film industry, including Cate Blanchett, Alison Brie, and Dave Franco.

The pope, known for his appreciation of arts, described cinema as a 'workshop of hope' and 'popular art in its noblest form'. He emphasized the significance of cinema in today's society, highlighting its power to inspire and provoke thought.

Pope Leo XIV encouraged filmmakers to address challenging subjects in their work. He urged them to tackle issues such as violence, poverty, and addiction, believing that cinema can serve as a catalyst for social change and understanding.

The pope's call to action comes amidst concerns about the future of traditional movie theaters in the face of streaming services. His appreciation for cinema's role in society underscores the importance of preserving the cinematic experience.

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