“This movie will provide funds to support extremely worthwhile causes that we take very seriously.
It was the church that opened its doors and let him shoot his film there, sparking a career that has seen him produce over 50 films by age 27. 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,” said Iervolino, for whom the project has special meaning.Īt the age of 15, Iervolino made his first film in his hometown of Cassino, Italy. “Our excitement and gratitude toward His Holiness, Pope Francis participating in this film is beyond words. Graciela Rodriguez wrote the screenplay based on her own concept, and she’ll also serve as a co-producer alongside Gabriel Leybu.Īlso Read: Mark Wahlberg Asks Pope Francis to Forgive Him for 'Ted' These charities help aid at-risk children and young adults in need.ĪMBI co-founders Andrea Iervolino and Lady Monika Bacardi are fully financing and producing the film through their AMBI Pictures banner. The pontiff is participating in the movie in the name of charity, with all profits from “Beyond the Sun” benefiting two selected organizations - El Almendro and Los Hogares de Cristo (located in Argentina) - that support the film’s social and spiritual message. He will play himself in the inspirational film based on the Gospels, in which children from different cultures will emulate the apostles while searching for Jesus in the world around them.Īlso Read: Leonardo DiCaprio Skips to Front of Line to Talk Climate With Pope Francis Pope Francis’ appearance in “Beyond the Sun” will mark the film debut for any pope in the history of the Catholic Church. Monsignor Eduardo Garcia will serve as Pope Francis’ adviser on the project.
The idea for the feature film emanated from Pope Francis asking the filmmakers to do a movie for children that communicates Jesus’ message. Pope Francis, the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church, believes that movies are so important in spreading the gospel of Jesus that he has agreed to play himself in “Beyond the Sun,” a family film in development at AMBI Pictures, the company announced Monday.