Pope Leo XIV Celebrates Cinema, Inspires Inclusion at Vatican

Pope Leo XIV recently held a special audience at the Vatican, where he welcomed a host of Hollywood stars, including Spike Lee, Cate Blanchett, and Greta Gerwig. The gathering took place in a beautifully frescoed hall and emphasized the Pope’s message of inclusivity in the arts. He urged the filmmakers and artists present to use their platforms to amplify the voices of marginalized communities, describing film as “a popular art in the noblest sense, intended for and accessible to all.”

The event was organized by the Vatican’s culture ministry and reflects a continuation of similar audiences hosted by Pope Francis over the years, which have included various artists and comedians. For Pope Leo, the occasion held particular significance as he is the first American pope, having grown up in Chicago during the golden age of Hollywood.

New Documentary Explores Selena’s Legacy

In another notable entertainment development, a new documentary titled “Selena Y Los Dinos: A Family’s Legacy” is set to premiere on Netflix on March 15, 2024. Directed by Isabel Castro and executive produced by Selena’s siblings, Suzette Quintanilla and AB Quintanilla III, the film provides a deep dive into the life and career of the iconic singer, featuring never-before-seen footage from the family’s personal archives. The creators hope the documentary will not only celebrate Selena’s lasting impact on music but also introduce her to new audiences.

Educational Initiative with Ken Burns and Lin-Manuel Miranda

In a separate initiative, filmmaker Ken Burns and Lin-Manuel Miranda led a special lesson for high school students at Trinity Church in Lower Manhattan. The event was connected to Burns’ upcoming PBS documentary, “The American Revolution,” which premieres on March 17, 2024. Burns emphasized the importance of diverse storytelling, stating that narratives should encompass all perspectives, not just those from the elite. The event aimed to inspire students to appreciate history in a more nuanced way.

The documentary features a range of narrators and historians, adding depth to the storytelling. Burns and Miranda, who have collaborated for nearly a decade, share a commitment to educating young audiences through engaging narratives.

Changes Ahead for SAG Awards

In a significant shift, the Screen Actors Guild Awards will officially be renamed the Actor Awards, beginning with the ceremony on March 1, 2026. This change was announced to the board of SAG-AFTRA, the union representing U.S. film and television actors. The rebranding aims to align the awards with their iconic statuette, which is named “The Actor,” providing clearer recognition for viewers. The awards have been a staple of Hollywood’s award season since their inception in 1995, and Netflix will continue to stream the event.

Exploring Relationships in Journalism

The release of emails involving the late Jeffrey Epstein has sparked discussions regarding the relationships between journalists and their sources. Several messages revealed a casual rapport between Epstein and various reporters, including advice from journalist Michael Wolff on managing media narratives. This has raised concerns about professional ethics, as the interactions showcased an informal side not typically visible to the public.

Cultural Reflections in “Palm Royale”

The Apple TV comedy “Palm Royale” continues to capture attention with its vibrant storytelling and unique fashion. Starring Kristen Wiig as Maxine, the series is set in 1969 Palm Beach and showcases an eclectic mix of vintage designer costumes. Costume designer Alix Friedberg noted that approximately 50-60% of the outfits in the second season are original, highlighting the show’s dedication to authenticity and detail.

Broadway Dreams Realized for Meg Donnelly

In the realm of theater, actress Meg Donnelly has made her Broadway debut in “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” playing the role of Satine. Known for her performances in Disney’s “Zombies” and the series “American Housewife,” Donnelly described this achievement as a dream come true. She expressed her passion for theater and her desire to continue exploring her artistic talents, including music.

A Documentary on Poet Andrea Gibson

Finally, the documentary “Come See Me in the Good Light” captures the life of celebrated poet Andrea Gibson, who passed away in July 2023. The film, now streaming on Apple TV, chronicles Gibson’s journey with terminal cancer alongside their wife, Megan Falley. The project, which balances humor and deep emotion, aims to celebrate Gibson’s legacy and their message about living fully, even in the face of adversity.

These diverse stories reflect the vibrant landscape of contemporary culture, from the Vatican’s embrace of film to the intimate legacies of artists and the ever-evolving nature of media relationships.