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Pope Francis's final interview to feature in Scorsese's film ‘Aldeas — A New Story'

Pope Francis's final interview to feature in Scorsese's film ‘Aldeas — A New Story'

India Today30-04-2025

Renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese is producing a new documentary titled Aldeas — A New Story, which will explore the late Pope Francis's contributions to global education through cinema. The film will be a collaboration between Scorsese and the Vatican and will feature what is believed to be Pope Francis's final extended on-camera interview before his death on April 21.According to Associated Press, the documentary will center around Scholas Occurrentes, a non-profit international organization founded by Pope Francis in 2013 to promote cultural dialogue and understanding among youth. A key component of this movement, the Aldeas initiative, encourages young people to create films as a way to engage with social issues and human connection. The film follows youth in Indonesia, Italy, and The Gambia as they participate in Aldeas filmmaking projects.advertisementThe production is a collaboration between Aldeas Scholas Film and Scorsese's own Sikelia Productions. In a joint statement, the producers described the project as 'a testament to the enduring belief that creativity is not only a means of expression but a path to hope and transformation.'
Before his passing, Pope Francis praised the Aldeas initiative as 'an extremely poetic and very constructive project' that delves into the roots of human life, sociability, and conflict. His words and values are expected to serve as the emotional backbone of the documentary.Scorsese, who has had multiple audiences with Pope Francis over the years, reflected on their shared belief in the power of storytelling. 'Now, more than ever, we need to talk to each other, listen across cultures,' he said. 'Cinema offers a bridge for understanding and preserving our diverse identities.'advertisementWhile a release date for the documentary has yet to be announced, it follows Scorsese's previous religious works such as Silence and The Last Temptation of Christ. The acclaimed director also recently produced the docuseries Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints.A conclave is scheduled for May 7 to choose Pope Francis's successor following his death, which has drawn global reflection on his legacy.Also Read: Who is David Corenswet? Meet the actor playing the new Superman

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