A new film about the life of Christ is being released as the world's first feature-length virtual reality movie.

A 40-minute preview of the film, which uses the latest technologies such as 360 degree footage, which gives the viewer the illusion of being in the movie, is to be screened at the Venice Film Festival early next month.

Producers Autumn VR, who are making the film with the virtual reality production company VRWERX, say in a press release that Jesus VR – The Story of Christ is to be released this Christmas.

The 90-minute film will be available on platforms including Oculus Rift and PlayStation VR.

The executive producer is Enzo Sisti, whose credits include Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ. The film's religious adviser is Father William Fulco, who worked with Sisti on the Gibson film.

The film has already been shot on location in Matera, Italy, in 360-degree 4K video.

"Producers promise a you-are-there VR experience for the entirety of Jesus's life and death, from his baptism to the Sermon on the Mount, and from the Last Supper to his crucifixion," says the press release.

Director and producer David Hansen said: "The viewers truly feel they are there with Jesus and his disciples. This is the most powerful story of all time and virtual reality is the perfect way to tell it."

Sisti said: "I am beyond thrilled to be a part of this groundbreaking project. It's as exciting a take on the story of Christ as I've ever seen and its production values will absolutely set a new benchmark for virtual reality."

Jesus is played by Tim Fellingham with Mish Boyko as Peter, Christian Serritiello as Andrew, Rhys Howells as Judas and Matteo Carlomagno as John. The script is by Andre van Heerden.

The screening will be held in a new VR Theatre at Venice's Casinò, which will be equipped with 50 VR headsets for individual viewing on seats that pivot 360°.