A new documentary is bringing Pope Leo XIV and Hollywood actor Chris Pratt together to explore the history and archaeological discoveries surrounding the tomb of St. Peter at the Vatican. Titled «Pétros Ení — Discovering the Origins», the film was produced by AF Films in collaboration with Vatican Media and the Fabric of St. Peter to mark the 400th anniversary of the consecration of St. Peter's Basilica, which took place on Nov. 18, 1626.
The documentary takes viewers into areas rarely seen by the general public, journeying back in time to the Roman necropolis preserved beneath St. Peter's Basilica. It draws on documents from the Archives of the Fabric of St. Peter, contributions from Pietro Zander, one of the leading experts on the Vatican Necropolis, images and audio recordings of the popes, and archival footage from renowned epigrapher Margherita Guarducci.
Pope Leo appears in the final scenes to discuss the figure of St. Peter and the significance of his tomb's presence beneath the famous basilica. Pratt, best known for his roles in «Guardians of the Galaxy» and «Jurassic World», speaks publicly about his Christian faith and is married to a practicing Catholic. According to Vatican News, he said the experience of making the film deeply moved him and helped him «define my faith».
«What I would like audiences to understand about Peter after watching this documentary is that he was an imperfect man», Pratt said. «He was a weak man. He was a human being. And I believe we are all broken, imperfect, and weak. But his strength lies in the grace of Jesus and his faith in God. With that strength, through grace and faith, you can be incredibly strong.»
He added: «It was an incredible honor to collaborate with Pope Leo and the Vatican on this project. The story of St. Peter is foundational to the Christian faith, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and access I was given to bring his legacy to the screen.»
The title «Pétros Ení» refers to a Greek inscription meaning «Peter is here», found near the apostle's burial grounds. The film is scheduled to begin its theatrical debut in February 2027, during the first weeks of Lent. Hallow Studios will handle distribution in the United States and Canada, Bosco Films will oversee Spain, and Cinépolis +Que Cine will manage theatrical release in Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia.
«When I first saw this film it changed my life. I think it is one of the most beautiful things I've ever seen. It is an honor to get to partner together on it», said Alex Jones, CEO and co-founder of Hallow. «And the fact that it is led by one of our core Hallow partners in Chris and features such a powerful reflection from Pope Leo is just truly extraordinary.»
The first trailer for the documentary was released on Oct. 16, offering a glimpse of the film's exploration of the Vatican's underground history and the enduring legacy of St. Peter.