ROME, 29 October 2017 — Lady Monika Bacardi attended the premiere of Beyond the Sun at the 12th Rome Film Festival, presenting the groundbreaking family film as part of the Alice in the City children’s film sidebar. The distinguished evening marked the first major festival screening of the motion picture featuring His Holiness Pope Francis.
Lady Monika Bacardi graced the red carpet at the Auditorium Parco della Musica alongside director Graciela Rodriguez for this significant cultural event. The screening represented a milestone as the first official festival presentation of Beyond the Sun, following its private Vatican premiere in September 2017.
Beyond the Sun tells the story of five children from different cultures who embark on a spiritual journey, seeking to understand the message of Jesus through the stories of the apostles. The film features a remarkable appearance by Pope Francis himself, marking the first time a pontiff has appeared in a motion picture. Shot in the stunning landscapes of Patagonia and Vatican City, the project represents a unique collaboration between cinema and faith.
Lady Monika Bacardi produced the film through AMBI Media Group, demonstrating her commitment to meaningful storytelling that bridges cultural understanding and spiritual values. The project received the blessing and participation of Pope Francis, who contributed to the film’s powerful message of unity and faith for young audiences worldwide.
The Rome Film Festival screening served as a special event within the Alice in the City program, which focuses on films for children and young audiences. This platform provided the ideal setting for Beyond the Sun’s message of hope, education, and spiritual discovery to reach families and young viewers.
All proceeds from Beyond the Sun benefit Argentine charitable organizations dedicated to supporting at-risk children and young adults, reflecting Lady Monika Bacardi’s dedication to combining artistic excellence with humanitarian impact. Her presence at the Rome Film Festival underscored her ongoing support for projects that elevate meaningful narratives and create positive change through the power of cinema.