Pope Francis will make his movie debut in a religious film titled "Beyond the Sun," wherein he will portray himself. This will be the first time that any pope will be appearing in a feature film.
A report in The Variety stated that AMBI Pictures will produce "Beyond the Sun," which has been described as a "family adventure" based on gospel and aims at teaching Jesus' message to children.
Andrea Iervolion, co-founder of AMBI Pictures and a financer of the upcoming film along with Lady Monika Bacardi, is thrilled that his dream project is becoming a reality. He said, "Our excitement and gratitude toward His Holiness, Pope Francis participating in this film is beyond words," adding, "This is not just a movie for us, it's a message, and who better to have on your side to deliver an important societal and spiritual message than the Pope."
While Gabriel Leybu will co-produce the Italian movie, the screenplay has been penned by Graciela Rodriguez. Monsignor Eduardo Garcia will serve as the advisor to Pope Francis in this project.
Shooting of the film is scheduled to commence shortly in Italy. Global distribution of the film will be managed by AMBI Pictures through its international sales division based in Los Angeles.
According to the producers, the entire profit from "Beyond the Sun" will be donated to charities like Argentinean charity organizations El Alemendro and Los Hogares de Cristo, which help children as well as young adults who are at risk.
Meanwhile, The Guardian reported that there are some conflicting reports regarding the extent to which Pope Francis will be involved in the film. Earlier, it was hinted that the Pope will have a significant role in the movie, but the official website of AMBI Pictures only mentions about an epilogue from Pope Francis, wherein the Holy Office talks to children on various means they ought to adopt and places they need to visit to find Jesus.
Watch Pope Francis delivering inter-religious dialogue below: