Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV on Thursday welcomed acclaimed Italian actor and Oscar-winning filmmaker Roberto Benigni to the Apostolic Palace for a private preview of his forthcoming television monologue, “Peter: A Man in the Wind.” The production, created in partnership with Vatican Media, is set to air soon on Italy’s state broadcaster Rai 1.
The meeting brought together Benigni, senior Rai executives, and Vatican communication officials for an intimate discussion on cinema, spirituality, and the enduring legacy of Saint Peter. According to a message released on Telegram by the Holy See Press Office, the audience took place shortly after the monologue was presented earlier in the day at Rome’s MAXXI Museum.
During the encounter, Pope Leo XIV viewed several excerpts from the performance. Deeply moved by the artistic portrayal, the Pope reportedly remarked, “How beautiful it speaks about love,” noting the emotional and spiritual depth of the work.
The conversation between the Pope and Benigni soon expanded into a broader reflection on film and storytelling. They revisited Benigni’s own iconic masterpiece Life Is Beautiful, as well as Frank Capra’s It’s a Wonderful Life two films Pope Leo XIV has previously identified among his personal favourites. The exchange also touched on themes central to the monologue, including the life and humanity of Saint Peter, Dante Alighieri’s literary influence, and the writings of Saint Augustine, particularly his Confessions.
The meeting was also attended by Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication; Stefano D’Agostini, Director of Vatican Media; and members of Benigni’s creative team, underscoring the project’s high cultural and ecclesial significance.
Benigni’s monologue, blending history, theology, and the actor’s trademark poetic style, aims to offer television audiences a fresh and stirring interpretation of the Apostle Peter his fragility, courage, and enduring relevance. The upcoming broadcast is expected to draw widespread viewership, marking another moment of collaboration between the Church and Italy’s artistic community.