New Documentary “Pétros Ení” Explores St. Peter’s Tomb with Pope Leo XIV and Chris Pratt
A forthcoming film is set to bring viewers into the rarely seen layers beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, combining scholarly insight, papal reflection, and Hollywood star power. Titled Pétros Ení — Discovering the Origins, the documentary was produced by AF Films in partnership with Vatican Media and the Fabric of St. Peter to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the basilica’s consecration on November 18, 1626.
What the Documentary Covers
The film journeys back to the Roman necropolis preserved under the basilica, drawing on documents from the Archives of the Fabric of St. Peter, expert commentary from necropolis specialist Pietro Zander, and archival material featuring epigrapher Margherita Guarducci. It also includes audio recordings of past popes and never‑before‑seen footage of the sacred subterranean spaces.
In the closing scenes, Pope Leo XIV discusses the theological significance of St. Peter’s tomb and its role as the foundation of the Christian faith. Hollywood actor Chris Pratt, known for Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World, shares his personal reflections on faith, describing the experience as “deeply moving” and saying it helped him “define my faith.”
Chris Pratt’s Personal Take on the Apostle Peter
“What I would like audiences to understand about Peter after watching this documentary is that he was an imperfect man. 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.”
Pratt added that collaborating with the Pope and the Vatican was “an incredible honor” and emphasized that the story of St. Peter is foundational to Christianity.
Release Plan and Distribution Partners
“Pétros Ení” is slated for a theatrical debut in February 2027, timed to coincide with the first weeks of Lent. Distribution will be handled regionally: Hallow Studios for the United States and Canada, Bosco Films for Spain, and Cinépolis +Que Cine for Mexico, Brazil, and Colombia.
The documentary’s trailer was announced for release on October 16, 2025. Hallow Studios CEO Alex Jones praised the film, calling it “one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever seen” and highlighting the partnership with Chris Pratt and Pope Leo XIV as “truly extraordinary.”
Why This Story Matters Now
Interest in early Christian archaeology has risen in recent years, with searches for “St. Peter tomb Vatican” and “Christian documentary faith” showing steady growth. The film’s blend of scholarly rigor, papal perspective, and celebrity engagement positions it to reach both religious audiences and broader documentary fans eager to explore the historical roots of the faith.
By presenting St. Peter as a relatable, flawed figure whose strength derives from divine grace, the documentary offers a fresh, accessible narrative that aligns with contemporary conversations about faith, humility, and personal transformation.
As the world approaches the Lenten season of 2027, “Pétros Ení — Discovering the Origins” promises to provide a timely, visually rich meditation on the origins of Christianity and the enduring legacy of its first pope.
Entertainment, Arts, Society, News, People, Documentary, Vatican, Chris Pratt, Pope Leo XIV, St. Peter’s Basilica, Lent 2027
