Chris Pratt and Pope Leo Explore St. Peter's Tomb in Vatican Documentary Trailer 'Discovering the Roots' (Exclusive)
A new documentary pairs Pope Leo and Hollywood star Chris Pratt to explore the history, religious fervor and archaeological discoveries surrounding St. Peter's Tomb in the Vatican. The doc entitled "Pétros Ení - Discovering the Roots" - which opens at the Rome Film Festival on Friday before its international release - […]
A new documentary pairs Pope Leo and Hollywood star Chris Pratt to explore the history, religious fervor and archaeological discoveries surrounding St. Peter's Tomb in the Vatican.
With footage rarely seen by the public, the film "explores how Peter's burial site became a center of early Christian worship and, ultimately, the site of the first great church built by Emperor Constantine," according to the synopsis. The words "Pétros Ení" in the title refer to a Greek inscription meaning "Here is Peter" found near the apostle's burial place.
Pratt, best known to audiences for his roles in the "Guardians of the Galaxy" and "Jurassic World" franchises, guides viewers on a journey beneath the church to discover the history and archeology of one of Christianity's most important sites.
The synopsis reads: “The journey culminates with a special contribution from Pope Leo XIV, who appears in the final scenes of the film to reflect on Peter and the meaning of his tomb under the basilica.
"It was an incredible honor to work with Pope Leo and the Vatican on this project," Pratt said in a statement. The story of St. Peter is fundamental to the Christian faith, and I am deeply grateful for the trust and access to bring his legacy to the screen.
"Petros Eni - Discovering the Roots" is directed by Spanish filmmaker Paula Ortiz and written by Andrea Tornelli. The documentary 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 documentary is set to begin its international premiere in February 2027 during the opening weeks of Lent, the Christian season of prayer, reflection and preparation for Easter and the central feast of the Christian calendar, according to the statement.
The launch brings together regional distribution partners, with Hallow Studios handling US and Canadian distribution. Bosco Films will release the documentary in Spain. and Cinépolis +Que Cine overseeing its theatrical release in Mexico, Brazil and Colombia.