A new documentary film titled Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality is set to hit theaters from April 27 to April 29, 2025, coinciding with the canonization of Carlo Acutis by Pope Francis. This film dives deep into the life and legacy of Acutis, a soon-to-be saint known for his innovative use of technology to spread the message of faith.
The film is produced by Castletown Media and Jim Wahlberg in collaboration with the National Eucharistic Congress, Inc., and the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame. It offers a unique perspective on how Acutis, a teenager who passed away in 2006, utilized digital tools to evangelize and promote the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist.
William H. Sadlier, Inc., a prominent publisher specializing in faith formation and academic programs for PreK–12, is proudly sponsoring this documentary. "Sadlier is deeply honored to support this film, which speaks to the hearts of Catholic educators and families and beautifully inspires students with a living example of Catholic identity in action," said Theresa Thompson, President and CEO of Sadlier.
The film features firsthand accounts from Acutis's family and friends, along with insights from Catholic leaders and tech experts. It tackles pressing questions about technology's impact on humanity, particularly among young people, and presents Carlo as a model for navigating the digital landscape responsibly.
In addition to exploring Acutis's life, the documentary follows a group of students on a pilgrimage from North Dakota to Italy. This journey is more than just a trip; the students embark unplugged, leaving behind their devices to foster genuine connections and embrace spiritual renewal. As they visit Carlo's tomb, they deepen their faith and reflect on his legacy.
David DiCerto, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Castletown Media and a producer of the film, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with Sadlier. "We are thrilled to welcome Sadlier as sponsors of Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality. We greatly admire Sadlier’s work as a leader in faith formation and look forward to partnering with them to share Blessed Carlo’s story," he said.
As part of its sponsorship, Sadlier will provide exclusive resources and reflections inspired by Carlo Acutis to assist schools and parishes in integrating his inspiring story into their programs. These resources align with Sadlier's enriching faith formation initiatives, such as the We Believe: Living Your Catholic Identity program for grades K–8, and their professional development course focused on Catholic identity.
The film not only celebrates Carlo Acutis's impending canonization but also aims to inspire a new generation of young people. By highlighting his story, the documentary encourages viewers to reflect on their relationship with technology and its role in their spiritual lives.
Carlo Acutis, who has been recognized for his deep faith and love for the Eucharist, is often described as a modern-day saint. His use of technology to spread the Catholic faith is particularly relevant in today's digital age, where many young people navigate complex online environments.
As the release date approaches, excitement is building around the film. Those interested in attending can find details about locations and ticket purchases on the film's official website, CarloAcutisFilm.com. Group ticket discounts are available, making it easier for schools and communities to experience this inspirational story together.
In a world where technology often dominates communication and interaction, Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality presents a timely reminder of the importance of faith and connection. It invites viewers to consider how they can use their own digital platforms for good, echoing Carlo's mission to evangelize through modern means.
As the film gears up for its limited theatrical run, audiences are encouraged to engage with its themes and reflect on the legacy of Carlo Acutis. His life serves as a beacon of hope and inspiration, particularly for young people seeking to navigate their faith in an increasingly digital world.
For more information about the film and its impact, keep an eye on Sadlier's social media channels and the film's website, where updates and additional resources will be shared leading up to the premiere.
