The Pope hails 'John Paul II'

VATICAN CITY, Nov. 17 (UPI) -- The Vatican Thursday was host for the world premiere of the CBS movie "John Paul II" and Pope Benedict XVI gave the miniseries two thumbs up.

An estimated 6,000 people came to the Paul VI Hall to view a shortened version of the three-part movie airing Dec. 4-6 on CBS, The Hollywood Reporter said.

"I would like to extend my gratitude to the actors for honoring the memory of my illustrious and loved predecessor," Benedict XVI said. "Viewing this film has reopened my gratitude to God for providing us with a pope both so human and so spiritual ... I welcome the distribution of this film."

"John Paul II" stars Jon Voight as the pope in his later years. Cary Elwes plays John Paul II as a young man.