A new and very special filming project is now happening inside St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Necropolis. Hollywood actor Chris Pratt is filming a documentary that will explore the story of St. Peter, his life, his burial site, and his lasting impact on the Christian faith. The project is produced by Vatican Media, the Fabric of St. Peter’s, and AF Films.
The team has received rare access to some of the most sacred and historically important areas inside the Vatican. The documentary will guide viewers through faith, history, and archaeology, showing places that most people never get to see. Pratt shared that it is an extraordinary honor for him to take part in a project so deeply connected to Christian history.
Chris Pratt said that working with Pope Leo XIV and the Vatican is a moment he will always value. He explained that St. Peter’s story is foundational to the Christian faith, and he feels grateful for the trust given to him to help bring this powerful story to life on screen.
The documentary is directed by Paula Ortiz and written by Andrea Tornielli, with expert advice from Pietro Zander, a respected specialist on St. Peter’s heritage. It is set to release in 2026, which also marks the 400th anniversary of the dedication of St. Peter’s Basilica.
The Basilica itself holds deep spiritual and historical meaning. It is dedicated to St. Peter, the fisherman from Galilee chosen by Jesus to lead the early Church. According to tradition, St. Peter was martyred in Rome in 64 AD on Vatican Hill. For centuries, Christians have honored him, and the discovery of his burial site was confirmed by the Vatican in 1950 and 1968, after major archaeological work revealed important relics.
This new documentary aims to take viewers as close as possible to that history. Through exclusive footage, it will show how the Basilica’s story and St. Peter’s legacy are deeply connected. The filming also highlights the ongoing effort to preserve this sacred site for future generations.
With Chris Pratt guiding the journey, audiences can expect a clear, emotional, and inspiring look into one of the most important stories in Christianity. This filming marks a rare and meaningful moment, bringing together faith, cinema, and ancient history in a powerful way.