The Vatican-collaborated documentary short Green Lava is scheduled to screen at the Lumiere Music Hall in Beverly Hills from September 18 to 24, according to Vatican Media. The screening launches the film’s qualification journey for the Best Documentary Short Film category at the Academy Awards, featuring 22-year-old protagonist Giacomo Mattivi and directed by Lia Beltrami and Ali Aksu.
Oscar Qualification Screening Details
The film’s theatrical run in the Los Angeles area takes place at the Lumiere Music Hall in Beverly Hills, running from September 18 to 24. According to production details, this engagement fulfills the necessary theatrical release requirements for Academy Award qualification in the Best Documentary Short Film category. Produced by Emotions to Generate Change in collaboration with Vatican News, Vatican Radio, and Vatican Media—all entities under the Dicastery for Communication—the Italian-language film features English subtitles following its Rome premiere on January 25, 2025, at the Jubilee of the World of Communications.
The Life and Story of Giacomo Mattivi
Protagonist Giacomo Mattivi, 22, lives in Baselga di Piné within the province of Trento. According to Vatican Media, he manages Duchenne muscular dystrophy while using a wheelchair and a ventilator. Despite his physical challenges, Mattivi studies sociology, works as a catechist, writes poetry, and pursues interests in cinema, music, and nature. His daily life includes university coursework, football matches with friends, a small egg-selling business, and family time. He continues planning for his future while honoring the memory of his brother Mattia, who died from the same condition in January 2022.
Did you know?
Giacomo Mattivi’s story was initially featured in 2024 through a five-part podcast series titled Il talento di Giacomo. Il viaggio di un giovane poeta dalla disabilità all’ispirazione, produced by the Vatican Radio and Vatican News podcast team.
Director and Producer Perspectives
Director Lia Beltrami described the project to Vatican Media as a significant challenge, noting that Mattivi’s joy and depth touched every cell in her body. Producer Ali Aksu, founder of the socially impactful platform Untold and co-director of Green Lava, told Vatican Media that he feels deeply grateful to bring untold stories to light through purpose-driven storytelling.
Vatican Leadership Response
Dr. Paolo Ruffini, Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, spoke to Vatican Media about the film following its presentation at the Jubilee of Communications. Referencing a remark by Mattivi regarding how difficult it is to see when glasses fog up, Dr. Ruffini called Green Lava “an antidote to our clouded eyes.” He noted that the film serves as a journey into the disruptive beauty of life and friendship as it moves toward the Academy Awards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Green Lava about?
Where can audiences watch Green Lava during its Oscar qualification run?
The film screens at the Lumiere Music Hall in Beverly Hills from September 18 to 24.
Who directed and produced the documentary?
The film is directed by Lia Beltrami and Ali Aksu, and produced by Emotions to Generate Change in collaboration with the Vatican’s Dicastery for Communication.
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