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 at the Vatican.
Titled “Pétros Ení — Discovering the Origins,” the doc — which launches from the Rome Film Festival on Friday ahead of its international rollout — marks the 400th anniversary, on Nov. 18, of the consecration of St. Peter’s. Variety can reveal its trailer exclusively above.
Featuring footage rarely seen by the general public, it “explores how Peter’s burial place became a center of devotion for early Christians and, eventually, the foundation for the first great basilica built under Emperor Constantine,” as the synopsis puts it. The words “Pétros Ení,” in the title, refer to a Greek inscription than means “Peter is here” found near the apostle’s burial grounds.
Pratt, who is best known to audiences for starring in the “Guardians of the Galaxy” and “Jurassic World” franchises, guides viewers on a journey beneath the basilica to discover the history and archaeology 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 meaning of his tomb beneath the Basilica,” the synopsis says.
“It was an incredible honor to collaborate with Pope Leo and the Vatican on this project,” Pratt said in a statement. “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.”
“Pétros Ení — Discovering the Origins” is directed by Spanish filmmaker Paula Ortiz and written by Andrea Tornielli. The doc is produced by AF Films, led by Frank Ariza and Manu Vega, together with Vatican Media and La Fabbrica di San Pietro.
The high-profile doc is scheduled to start its international theatrical rollout in February 2027 during the opening weeks of Lent, the Christian season of prayer, reflection and preparation for Easter and the central celebration of the Christian calendar, according to the statement.
The rollout will bring together regional distribution partners, with Hallow Studios handling U.S. and Canada distribution; Bosco Films releasing the documentary in Spain; and Cinépolis +Que Cine overseeing its theatrical release in Mexico, Brazil and Colombia.
