Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality–A Saint for Our Times with Tim Moriarty & Christian Surtz
-
April 2, 2025
Apr 2, 2025 byWhat does holiness look like in a world ruled by screens?
In this powerful new episode of The Engaged Parish Podcast, we sit down with filmmaker Tim Moriarty and co-director Christian Surtz to explore their upcoming feature documentary Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality — a film that delves into the life of the soon-to-be Saint Carlo Acutis and what his example means for us today.
Carlo, often called “God’s influencer,” is a relatable modern-day witness for young Catholics. He loved video games, coding, and sneakers. But more importantly, he fell deeply in love with Jesus in the Eucharist. His life was marked by a profound mysticism and a deep awareness of the real presence of Christ in a culture that increasingly trades real connections for virtual stimulation.
Carlo Acutis: Roadmap to Reality premieres in theaters April 27–29, 2025— coinciding providentially with the date of Carlo’s canonization.Leaving the Phone Behind
One of the most moving aspects of the documentary is a real-life pilgrimage in which 150 high school students left their phones behind and journeyed through Italy to visit Carlo’s tomb. Their story is woven into the film, offering a powerful look at what happens when we disconnect from technology and rediscover the presence of Christ—and one another.
As Christian shared in the episode, watching these students transform over the course of their pilgrimage was unforgettable:"They were hesitant at first, even in withdrawal. But by the end of the journey, many didn’t want their phones back. One student even deleted social media entirely after coming home."
Tackling the Big Questions
The film doesn’t shy away from the challenges of modern tech. With commentary from Church leaders and tech experts alike, Roadmap to Reality examines how digital spaces are reshaping our identity, attention, and even our spirituality. But the message isn’t one of despair — it’s a call to live with intention, rooted in reality and sacramental grace.
As Tim put it: “Carlo wasn’t interested in becoming an influencer. His goal was to get people off his website and back into church.”
How You Can Help Promote the Film
eCatholic is proud to partner with Castletown Media as a promotional sponsor of the film. To help get the word out, we’re offering free, high-quality posters to any parish, school, or diocese that wants to promote the film locally.
Get tickets at CarloAcutisFilm.com/Tickets
Request your FREE poster: eCatholic.com/Carlo
(We’ll cover the cost of printing and shipping!)