New docudrama investigates great unsolved mystery: 'Legends of the Lost Ark'

A stunning new film, “Legends of the Lost Ark,” selected as a nominee for an award at the International Christian Film & Music Festival, reopens the case of the lost Ark of the Covenant. Archaeology professor, Dr. Chris McKinny, who trained at Israel’s prestigious Bar Ilan University, examines all known clues about the lost ark in the powerful documentary-drama, investigating old secrets with new science.

The lost ark would be the greatest archaeological find the world had ever seen, having hosted the very presence of God and His Shekhina (God is here) glory. The ark all but vanished around 586 B.C. when Babylonian invaders conquered Jerusalem and captured the people. The temple was destroyed and many of the artifacts were looted. But what about the ark? 

From that moment, it was lost. 
”All of a sudden, gone,” says McKinny. “My goal is to put an 'X marks the spot' for where the legends pointed.”

The film examines three enduring legends surrounding the Ark’s disappearance through textual analysis, archaeological exploration, and theological debate by experts. With immersive reenactments, the events surrounding the Babylonian destruction are cinematically portrayed, including the prophet Jeremiah desperately trying to safeguard the Ark.

“What happened to the Ark remains one of the most fascinating mysteries in human history. This film charts new territory in investigating the most ancient legends surrounding its disappearance,” he states.

“What do the historical sources say? Are you in the right geographical setting? 
Is it just a crazy coincidence? Is it possible that this is what the Ark of the Covenant was hidden?” McKinny asks. “Trying to locate with an X on the ground can be really difficult.”

Sifting through traditions and legends for clues, and scrutinizing all available sources afresh, the adventure in search of the world’s most sacred relic has been brought to theatres by the combined effort of some 300 people.

The film, by Fathom Entertainment, was produced by Gesher Media, directed by Stephen Pettit, and presented in partnership with Myriad Pictures.

Gesher has also produced a companion book, weaving together biblical and secular sources to explore the Ark’s origins, significance, and possible whereabouts.

“These legends are pointing to that hope – that the story is not yet over,” according to the official trailer.

The film has already won the 2025 Silver Crown Award for Best Limited Theatrical Release from International Christian Visual Media (ICVM), and will be released in 1,000 theaters across the U.S. on April 12, 14 and 15.

Tickets for "Legends of the Lost Ark" are available online now.

This article was produced in partnership with Gesher Media.