Pope Francis is set to appear in a movie as himself in the movie, 'Behind the Sun'. It will be the first time for a pope to play as himself in a movie. Principal photography is set to begin early this year and the proceeds of the film will be donated to charity organizations in Argentina.
As reported by Variety, Pope Francis will star in the film alongside Monsignor Eduardo Garcia who will play the role of his advisor. 'Behind the Sun' will be financed and produced by AMBI Pictures founded by Andrea Lervolino and Lady Monika Bacardi.
"Our excitement and gratitude toward His Holiness, Pope Francis participating in this film is beyond words," Lervolino said. "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."
Bacardi also said that they aim to make the movie that will entertain and move people around the world. The project will be based on Gospels and will be told in different tales. According to Deadline, it will feature children from different cultures who emulate the Apostles in their search for Jesus in the world.
The filmmakers stated that the movie will be made to "spiritually engage and encourage audiences of all ages to transmit Jesus' words, to understand them and integrate them to live a better life, make good choices and help others."
As reported by Independent, the Pope asked the filmmakers to create a film that will be a family adventure that is based on the Gospel. The role of Pope Francis was previously played by actors such as John Goodman, Robbie Coltrane and Bob Hoskins, but the upcoming film will be the first time the Pope will appear in a feature as himself.
The earnings of 'Beyond the Sun' will be donated to El Alemendro and Los Hogares de Cristo that institutions in Argentina that provides aid to at risk children and young adults. AMBI Pictures will oversee the worldwide release of the film.
