Hollywood star Chris Pratt has teamed up with Pope Leo XIV in a new documentary delving into the history, religious fervor, and archaeological revelations surrounding the tomb of St.
Peter at the Vatican.
The film, titled Ptros En, premiered at the Rome Film Festival on Friday ahead of its international release and coincides with the 400th anniversary, on November 18, of the consecration of St. Peters Basilica, according to Breitbart. The first audience responded with a warm round of applause for Pope Leo XIV, who is currently undergoing treatment at Romes Gemelli Hospital, the Vatican News reports.
Produced by AF Films in collaboration with Vatican Media and the Fabric of St. Peter, the documentary marks the 400th anniversary of the basilicas consecration on November 18, 1626. Directed by Paula Ortiz, written by Andrea Tornielli, narrated by American actor Pratt, it also features an appearance by Pope Leo in a rare on-screen role.
Variety notes that the production includes footage seldom seen by the general public as it explores how Peters 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 title phrase Ptros En refers to a Greek inscription meaning Peter is here, discovered near the apostles burial site and underscoring the films focus on historical continuity and Christian roots.
Pratt, best known for his roles in the Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World franchises, leads viewers beneath the basilica to uncover the history and archaeology of one of Christianitys most significant locations, the Variety report sets out. The journey culminates with the special participation of Pope Leo XIV, who appears in the films final scenes to reflect on Peter and the meaning of his tomb beneath the Basilica, the synopsis says, per the report.
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. The documentarys international theatrical rollout is slated for February 2027, timed to the opening weeks of Lent, aligning its message of faith, sacrifice, and tradition with a season when Christians worldwide turn back to the core truths that have anchored Western civilization for two millennia.
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