The legendary sounds of Petra are heading to the big screen, and longtime fans may want to start marking their calendars now.
A brand-new faith-based drama, Beyond Belief, is officially set to hit theaters nationwide on August 28, 2026, bringing the iconic music of Petra to a whole new generation of moviegoers. The film, distributed by Iconic Events Releasing and produced by Intrigue Films, combines an inspirational coming-of-age story with some of Christian rock's most beloved songs.
What makes this release especially exciting is that Petra's founding guitarist Bob Hartman and longtime frontman John Schlitt have officially endorsed the project, giving fans confidence that the band's legacy is in good hands.
The film stars Carson Lueders, whose massive social media following could introduce Petra's music to audiences who weren't even born during the band's chart-dominating years. Joining him on screen are James C. Burns, Debby Gerber, and Libby Smallbone.
Set in the 1980s, Beyond Belief follows Andy, a teenage rocker determined to make it big while wrestling with the devastating loss of his father. But when a mysterious voice begins urging him to "run," his dreams take an unexpected turn. What follows is a journey filled with faith, difficult choices, and a search for God's purpose that could change his life forever.
For Petra fans, the biggest draw may be the soundtrack. The four-time Grammy-winning Christian rock pioneers have sold more than 10 million records worldwide and helped define an entire era of Christian music. Their songs are woven throughout the film, creating a nostalgic backdrop for older fans while introducing younger audiences to classics that shaped the genre.
John Schlitt couldn't hide his excitement about the project, saying that seeing Petra's songs find new life through a feature film and reach a new generation is deeply meaningful after decades of ministry through music.
The movie arrives as faith-based films continue to attract strong audiences looking for stories centered on hope, purpose, and redemption. With Petra's music serving as the heartbeat of the film, Beyond Belief appears poised to tap into both nostalgia and inspiration.
Directed by Johnny Meier and produced by Joe Sanders, David Aaron Stone, and Sharon Oliphant, the film will also be accompanied by an official soundtrack release through Girder Music featuring original songs alongside Petra favorites heard in the movie.
For fans who grew up blasting Petra cassettes and CDs-or younger viewers discovering the band for the first time-Beyond Belief may be one of the most intriguing faith-based releases of the year. One thing is certain: Petra's music is getting a second act, and this time it's coming with a movie screen.
For more information, visit beyondbelief.movie and follow @beyondbelief_themovie on Instagram, @thebeyondbeliefmovie on Facebook and TikTok.
