The Vatican seeks to make history at the Oscars with the documentary Green Lava
The Vatican is preparing to mark an unprecedented milestone in the film industry. For the first time in its 97-year history, a production directly linked to the Holy See will seek an Oscar nomination. This is Green Lava, an emotional 39-minute documentary that aspires to compete in the Best Documentary Short Subject category.
The audiovisual piece, directed by Lia Beltrami and Ali Aksu, began its journey toward the golden statuette with a special screening at the Lumiere Music Hall in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles. This step is essential to meet the requirements established by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, allowing the team to complete the necessary documentation for the competition.
A story of resilience and faith
The documentary chronicles the life of Giacomo Mattivi, a young Italian man suffering from Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The plot delves into his process of overcoming grief following the passing of his brother Mattia, who also suffered from this condition. Set against the majesty of the Dolomites, the work highlights how Giacomo found the strength in his community and his deep faith to become a catechist.
The meeting with the Pope was, once again, very significant, although it was not the first time. I asked Pope Francis if I could send him more poems, and he responded affirmatively with a gesture of his hand. It was very moving to see that he remembered me.
Giacomo Mattivi on his bond with Pope Francis.
The film captures intimate moments between Giacomo and Pope Francis, reflecting a spiritual connection that has been a fundamental part of his personal history. Paolo Ruffini, head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, has been one of the main promoters of this project, ensuring that the young man’s life is a message that deserves to be shared with a global audience.
Details of the process towards the Academy
- Production: Produced by Emotions to Generate Change in collaboration with Vatican News, Vatican Radio, and Vatican Media.
- Category: Best Documentary Short Subject.
- Status: As it is a short film, the work does not require official endorsement from a State to compete, unlike the category for Best International Feature Film.
If the documentary manages to pass the evaluation stages and secures a nomination, it would represent a historic moment for Vatican communication on the big screen. The Academy will reveal the final list of nominees on January 21, while the awards ceremony is scheduled for March 14, 2027.
