Pope Francis will become the first ever pontiff to appear in a feature film when Beyond the Sun is launched at Cannes Festival later this month.

The 80-year-old plays himself in the religiously themed movie where four-children from different backgrounds try to follow the teachings of Christ.

Ambi Pictures made the film after the Holy Father approached them to ask if a story communicating Jesus message could be made.

In return he offered to star in the movie with all the profits being donated to two Argentinian charities El Almendro and Los Hogares de Cristo, which support at-risk children and young adults in need.

Co-founder Andrea Iervolino, a committed Catholic, said: 'Our excitement and gratitude toward His Holiness, Pope Francis, participating in this film is beyond words.

Adding he was impressed with the Francis' acting ability: '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. We are honoured and inspired by the level of collaboration from the Vatican.'

He told Italy's Corriere della Sera newspaper: 'The story aims to encourage people to live the word of Jesus, to live a better life, and to make good choices.'s

Written and directed by Graciela Rodriguez, Beyond the Sun stars child actors Aiden Cumming-Teicher, Emma Duke, Cory Gruter-Andrew, Kyle Breitkopf, and Sebastiάn Alexander Chou.