Pope Francis is set to appear on a religious film titled "Beyond the Sun" but not as an actor, the Vatican said yesterday.

Last Monday, Variety reported that the Pope of the Roman Catholic Church will appear in a Christian film, making him the first pope in history to do so. It will be produced by Rome-based distribution and production company AMBI Pictures.

After AMBI Pictures announced on Monday in a press release that the Pope will be "playing himself in the family film," some media outlets reported that the said film will be the Pope's debut as an actor.

But according to Reuters, a representative from the Vatican said on Tuesday, "The Pope is not an actor." This downplays earlier reports that suggest his film acting debut.

Pope Francis has asked the filmmakers from AMBI Pictures to create a film that talks about Jesus' gospel in a way that is relatable to the children, according to the same Variety report.

"Beyond the Sun" is described in detail as a "family adventure story where children from different cultures emulate the apostles while searching for Jesus in the world around them."

The executive producers of the film, AMBI Pictures co-founders Andre Iervolino and Lady Monika Bacardi, will be working with Graciela Rodriguez for its screenplay and will be co-producing with Gabriel Leybu. Monsignor Eduardo Garcia is tasked to be the Pope's advisor in the said project.

"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," said Iervolino.

Argentinean charities El Alemendro and Los Hogares de Christo will be the recipients of all the proceeds of the said film project. Both charities help at-risk children and young adults.

Iervolino said: "This movie will provide funds to support extremely worthwhile causes that we take very seriously. This message and cause are very dear to the entire AMBI family and we are honored and inspired by the level of collaboration from the Vatican."

AMBI Pictures was awarded as the Best Film Production Company by the Italian Contemporary Film Festival (ICFF) from 2013-2014.