Pope Leo has enlisted some serious star power to spread hope and inspiration, welcoming Hollywood A-listers including Australian actress Cate Blanchett to the Vatican for a special mission.

The Oscar-winning actress was among the celebrities packing the pews of the Vatican’s Clementine Hall after being welcomed by the Pope for a sermon on cinema.

The pontiff, perhaps preaching to the converted, contrasted the digital age’s constant flow of information with film’s ability to explore deeper questions after naming It’s a Wonderful Life and The Sound of Music among his favourites this week.

“More than a few people say the art of cinema and the cinematic experience are in danger,” the Pope said. “I urge institutions not to give up.”

He issued a real charge not to shy away from difficult, pa

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