Wow Actor Chris Pratt Co-Stars with Pope Leo XIV in New Vatican Documentary Movie about Saint Peter's Tomb - Pétros ení - WATCH the Trailer

Pope Leo XIV and Chris Pratt Feature in New Vatican Documentary on St. Peter’s Tomb

To mark the 400th anniversary of the consecration of St. Peter’s Basilica, a ground-breaking new documentary titled Pétros ení: Discovering the Origins is set to premiere at the Rome Film Festival on October 16.

Produced by AF Films in collaboration with Vatican Media and the Fabric of St. Peter, the documentary is directed by acclaimed Spanish filmmaker Paula Ortiz and written by Andrea Tornielli, with scientific guidance from leading Vatican Necropolis expert Pietro Zander.

Narrated by American actor Chris Pratt, the film takes audiences deep beneath the famous basilica to explore the hidden Vatican Necropolis and the humble burial site of the Apostle Peter. The journey culminates in a rare appearance by Pope Leo XIV, who reflects on Peter’s enduring legacy and the significance of his resting place beneath the church’s iconic Bernini colonnade.

“It was an incredible honor to collaborate with Pope Leo and the Vatican on this project,” said Pratt. “The story of St. Peter is foundational to the Christian faith, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and access given to bring his legacy to the screen.”

The film traces the rich history of the site—from Peter's martyrdom under Emperor Nero to Emperor Constantine’s construction of the first basilica. It also highlights the 20th-century archaeological breakthroughs under Popes Pius XII and Paul VI that ultimately led to the discovery and authentication of St. Peter’s relics. Featuring never-before-seen footage of the ancient crypt, Pétros ení offers an intimate look at the intersection of faith, history, and archaeology.

 Pétros ení: Discovering the Origins Premieres at Rome Film Festival

New documentary featuring Chris Pratt and Pope Leo XIV explores the hidden tomb of St. Peter on the 400th anniversary of the Basilica’s consecration.

• The Event: A special preview screening of Pétros ení will take place on October 16 at 11:30 a.m. CET at the Rome Film Festival.

• Key Figures: Narrated by actor Chris Pratt, directed by Paula Ortiz, written by Andrea Tornielli, and featuring a special final appearance by Pope Leo XIV.

• Production: Produced by AF Films (Frank Ariza and Manu Vega) in partnership with Vatican Media and the Fabric of St. Peter, with expert archaeological consultation from Pietro Zander.

• The Story: Commemorating the 1626 consecration of St. Peter’s Basilica, the film takes viewers through exclusive, never-before-filmed areas of the Vatican Necropolis to uncover the history and archaeological search for St. Peter’s tomb.