A new documentary pairs Pope Leo and Hollywood star Chris Pratt to delve into the history, religious passion and archaeological discoveries surrounding the tomb of St. Peter in the Vatican.
Entitled “Pétros Ení – Discovering the origins”, the documentary – which will be launched on Friday at the Rome Film Festival before its international broadcast – marks the 400th anniversary, on November 18, of the consecration of Saint Peter. Variety can reveal its trailer exclusively above.
Featuring images rarely seen by the general public, it “explores how Peter’s burial site became a center of devotion for early Christians and, ultimately, the founding of the first great basilica built under the Emperor Constantine,” as the synopsis puts it. The words “Pétros Ení” in the title refer to a Greek inscription meaning “Peter is here” found near the apostle’s cemetery.
Pratt, who is best known to audiences for his role in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Jurassic World” franchises, guides viewers on a journey beneath the basilica to discover the history and archeology of one of Christianity’s most important sites.
“The journey culminates with the special participation of Pope Leo XIV, who appears in the film’s final scenes to reflect on Peter and the significance of his tomb beneath the basilica,” the synopsis states.
“It has been an incredible honor to collaborate with Pope Leo and the Vatican on this project,” Pratt said in a statement. “St. Peter’s story is foundational to the Christian faith, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and access I have been given to bring his legacy to the screen.”
Pope Leo in “Pétros Ení – Discovering the origins”.
Courtesy of AF Films, Vatican Media
“Pétros Ení – Discovering the Origins” is directed by Spanish filmmaker Paula Ortiz and written by Andrea Tornielli. The documentary is produced by AF Films, led by Frank Ariza and Manu Vega, in collaboration with Vatican Media and La Fabbrica di San Pietro.
The wide-ranging documentary is expected to begin its international theatrical release in February 2027, during the first weeks of Lent, the Christian season of prayer, reflection and preparation for Easter and the central celebration of the Christian calendar, according to the release.
The rollout will bring together regional distribution partners, with Hallow Studios handling distribution in the United States and Canada; Bosco Films broadcasts the documentary in Spain; and Cinépolis +Que Cine is overseeing its theatrical release in Mexico, Brazil and Colombia.
Chris Pratt in “Pétros Ení – Discovering the origins”.
Courtesy of AF Films, Vatican Media
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