Italy is renowned not only for its cuisine and culture but also for producing countless saints who have shaped the spiritual landscape of the world. Among the most iconic are St. Francis of Assisi and St. Padre Pio, two figures whose lives continue to inspire millions. Now, a dedicated film crew from Rome is working to bring their stories to the screen.
A New Docudrama on St. Francis
Daniela Gurrieri, a producer and director alongside her husband Fabio, shared their vision: “We are based in Rome, but today we’re in Nepi, where we are filming a scene of a new docudrama on Saint Francis and the Eucharist.” Their production company, “Cristiana Video,” has previously collaborated with EWTN, creating films about figures like Pier Giorgio Frassati. The focus of their work is to offer a deeper understanding of the saints’ lives and their spiritual impact.
Stefano Scialanga, who portrays St. Francis, reflected on the saint’s journey: “Saint Francis is a man who has made his decisions based on the experiences he has had. He was not born a saint; he became a saint.” Scialanga believes that anyone can follow in the footsteps of St. Francis, emphasizing that sainthood is achievable for all.
Fabio Carini, another key figure in the production, summed up the film’s mission: “For me, success is when at least one person can say, ‘Ah, I understand now, I’m going to change. I get it.’ That’s what success is—when someone says, ‘You helped me think differently, maybe even change.’”
Padre Pio: A Man of Suffering and Reflection
In addition to their St. Francis project, “Cristiana Video” is also working on a film about Padre Pio, in collaboration with the Saint Pio Foundation and EWTN. Andrea Dugoni, who plays the role of Padre Pio, shared his personal connection to the saint’s life: “I pondered about sufferings, and what suffering meant to him towards mankind. I asked myself questions about that. I don’t think there could be any real answer—only good questions that lead to reflection.”
Alexander Harvey, another actor in the Padre Pio film, portrays Elia Stelluto. Raised atheist, Harvey expressed his amazement at the profound impact people like Padre Pio have on others. “I really find it interesting how certain people have such great impacts on the lives of many,” Harvey said. “I’m amazed that a channel from America comes to Italy to do something like this—it’s really cool and interesting.”
The Impact of Faith on Film
The goal of both films is not just to tell the stories of these saints but to inspire real change in the audience. As Daniela Gurrieri explains, “We think it’s efficacious to see the filmed scenes of these Saints, but also to listen to experts who really can help you enter in depth into the meaning of what you see.” She hopes the films will touch viewers on a deep level, saying, “My wish is that these docudramas reach the hearts of the people to the point that they really change their lives.”
The docudrama about St. Francis, titled “His Body and Blood—Franciscan Saints on the Eucharist,” will premiere on EWTN in early 2025. The film on Padre Pio, “Saint Pio of Pietrelcina—Man of Hope and Healing,” will premiere on EWTN’s free Video On Demand site on September 23rd.
These films are not just historical accounts but spiritual tools aimed at inspiring a deeper connection with the lives of two of Italy’s most revered saints.
