The Vatican’s Historic Oscar Submission
For the first time in its 97-year history, the Vatican will submit a documentary film for Oscar consideration, as reported by Variety and official Vatican media this week.
The film, titled Green Lava, is a 2025 documentary co-directed by Lia Beltrami and Ali Aksu. It runs for 39 minutes and tells the poignant story of Giacomo Mattivi, a 22-year-old from the Dolomites suffering from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD). This rare genetic condition affects mostly males and causes progressive muscle deterioration. Tragically, Giacomo’s brother Mattia, who also had DMD, passed away in January 2022.
Scheduled to premiere at the Lumiere Music Hall in Beverly Hills, California, the documentary will be shown from September 18 through September 24. It was first aired in Rome by the Vatican in January 2025, coinciding with the Jubilee of the World of Communications.
“Giacomo’s story deserves to be known by everyone. That’s why we are thrilled to submit Green Lava for Oscar consideration,” stated Paolo Ruffini, head of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication, in a statement to Variety.
Ruffini described Green Lava as “a celebration of life and friendship” and highlighted the “richness” that those living with illness can bring to their relationships and communities.
Director Lia Beltrami shared with Variety that she lives near Mattivi and his family, noting that the community in the Italian Dolomites is characterized by their care and devotion to one another. “It’s beautiful to see that the community has come together around Giacomo, showing him kindness and inclusion,” she reflected. “I hope this film inspires viewers to emulate the spirit of the mountain people.”
Vatican News also pointed out that Mattivi’s story, despite the challenges posed by his condition, has been widely covered as an inspiring narrative. He is an active sociology student, a catechist, and a poet, while also nurturing interests in cinema and music. He had several encounters with the late Pope Francis, the last being in January 2025, just months before the pope’s passing.
In 2024, a podcast series from Vatican Radio titled “Giacomo’s Talent: The Journey of a Young Poet from Disability to Inspiration” explored Mattivi’s life and how the loss of his brother spurred his creativity and openness, showcasing his passions, familial love, and faith. Vatican News noted that this podcast set the stage for the themes seen in Green Lava.
In a statement shared with Vatican Media, Giacomo Mattivi expressed his excitement, stating he is “truly happy” that Green Lava will reach a broader audience. He believes the film can reveal “the best that exists within each of us.”
According to Vatican News, while for Mattivi, the Oscar consideration isn’t about personal pride, it’s more an opportunity for the documentary’s important messages to resonate with many.
“If you look at illness from a different angle, you can understand a lot about the world, suffering, and its sometimes elusive meaning,” he shared.
Lia Beltrami emphasized the challenge of telling Giacomo’s story, highlighting his strength and joyful spirit, which deeply resonate. She expressed that Giacomo, his late brother, and their community exemplify authenticity and solidarity—a living Gospel, in a sense. Bringing this documentary to Hollywood, according to Beltrami, represents a significant chance to showcase “how meaningful life lived in faith can be.”
