Gravitas Ventures has obtained the North American distribution rights for the Shia LaBeouf-starring drama Padre Pio, directed by Abel Ferrara.
Co-written by Maurizio Braucci and Ferrara, Padre Pio premiered at the Venice Film Festival last year. The story follows young Italian soldiers returning to San Giovanni Rotondo after World War I, a region marked by poverty, violence, and strict church control. Amid this adversity, Padre Pio (LaBeouf) begins his ministry at a remote Capuchin monastery, captivating others with his saintliness and rumored visions of Jesus, Mary, and the Devil. The film culminates with a symbolic massacre on the eve of Italy’s first free election.
The cast includes Cristina Chiriac, Marco Leonardi, Asia Argento, Vincenzo Crea, Luca Lionello, Brando Pacitto, Stella Mastrantonio, and Salvatore Ruocco. Diana Phillips, Philipp Kreuzer, and Maurizio Antonini produced the film, while Hammerstone’s Alex Lebovici, Keanu Mayo, and Kyle Stroud served as executive producers. Co-financing was provided by Christian Mercuri’s Capstone Global and the filmmakers, with Capstone handling worldwide rights.
Ferrara stated that Padre Pio “is a film about the spiritual journey of the saint, paralleled by Shia LaBeouf’s portrayal.”
Cameron Moore, Gravitas Ventures’ Senior Director of Theatrical Distribution, added, “Padre Pio is set to become a much-discussed religious biopic. LaBeouf’s gripping performance, combined with Ferrara’s skillful direction, ensures the film’s lasting impact. We’re excited to bring it to North American audiences.”
The film is slated for a simultaneous theatrical and digital release on June 2nd.
