Chris Pratt and Pope Leo XIV Explore St. Peter's Tomb in 'Discovering the Origins'

By Elena Vasquez

Pope Leo XIV appears alongside Chris Pratt in a new Vatican documentary about the tomb of St. Peter. The film, titled "Pétros Ení — Discovering the Origins," launches from the Rome Film Festival on Friday. Its international theatrical rollout begins in February 2027, timed to the opening weeks of Lent.

The documentary marks the 400th anniversary of the consecration of St. Peter's Basilica, which falls on November 18. That date is roughly 14 months before the film reaches theaters worldwide — a long runway for a documentary built on rare access and a Hollywood star.

What is the film about?

Pratt, known for the "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Jurassic World" franchises, guides viewers beneath the basilica into the archaeology of one of Christianity's most important sites. The film uses footage rarely seen by the general public.

According to the synopsis, 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."

The title carries its own archaeological weight. "Pétros Ení" is a Greek inscription meaning "Peter is here," found near the apostle's burial grounds.

How does Pope Leo XIV appear?

The pontiff appears in the film's final scenes. "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 states.

A pope sharing the screen with a Marvel and Jurassic Park franchise lead is an unusual pairing for a theatrical documentary — and a deliberate one for a film aimed at a broad global audience.

Pratt addressed the collaboration directly. "It was an incredible honor to collaborate with Pope Leo and the Vatican on this project," he 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."

Who made it, and who will distribute it?

Spanish filmmaker Paula Ortiz directs. Andrea Tornielli wrote the script. AF Films, led by Frank Ariza and Manu Vega, produces together with Vatican Media and La Fabbrica di San Pietro.

The rollout assembles regional distribution partners across at least five territories:

• Hallow Studios — United States and Canada
• Bosco Films — Spain
• Cinépolis +Que Cine — Mexico, Brazil and Colombia

The February 2027 release window places the film in the Christian season of prayer, reflection and preparation for Easter, the central celebration of the Christian calendar, according to the statement. In short: a papal documentary with franchise-star wattage now has a dated, multi-territory theatrical plan.