Titans of the faith-based filmmaking industrial complex they helped to create, Kingdom Story Company founders Andrew and Jon Erwin built their brand on the Christian rock biopics “I Still Believe” and “I Can Only Imagine,” ultra-benign stories of faith, loss, and profit that rely on powerful songwriting to compensate for sermon-like storytelling, and frame their subject’s artistic success as both a testament to their faith and a megaphone for the word of Jesus Christ. Absent the rigor or artistry of secular comps like “Love & Mercy” and “Coal Miner’s Daughter” (but also absent the Wikipedia-driven ghoulishness of more recent examples like “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “I Wanna Dance with Somebody”), these movies are happy to function as feature-length commercials for the musicians they were made to honor, just as they’re happy to offer halos to the people who inspired them.
That’s a key feature of cinematic evangelism,...
That’s a key feature of cinematic evangelism,...
- 4/25/2024
- by David Ehrlich
- Indiewire
This weekend marks the last quiet at the box office before summer movie season kicks off with The Fall Guy. As such, it’s expected to be a relatively quiet weekend, with nothing expected to make a debut over the mid-to-high teens. Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers is expected to notch an easy win, thanks to the solid reviews (including our own) and the fact that it features one of the biggest stars of the moment, Zendaya. I’m expecting a debut in the $17 million-ish range, which would be a decent start for distributors Amazon-MGM, who will put the film out on Prime Video before too long.
Originally, Challengers was set for a fall 2023 start, but it was delayed because of the SAG-AFTRA strike. One could understand why, as Zendaya wouldn’t have been available to promote a movie which is earning her rave reviews. While the delay may...
Originally, Challengers was set for a fall 2023 start, but it was delayed because of the SAG-AFTRA strike. One could understand why, as Zendaya wouldn’t have been available to promote a movie which is earning her rave reviews. While the delay may...
- 4/25/2024
- by Chris Bumbray
- JoBlo.com
Game, set… but there’s not much of a match. “Challengers,” a steamy tennis drama starring Zendaya and directed by Luca Guadagnino, is poised to lead the domestic box office without much in the way of competition.
The film, from Amazon MGM, is projected to collect $12 million to $15 million from 3,400 North American theaters in its opening weekend. Although those are modest projections for any nationwide release, it’s this weekend’s only major new movie and shouldn’t have trouble claiming first place from A24’s “Civil War,” the reigning champion. Last weekend, “Civil War” topped the box office for the second consecutive frame with $11.1 million and has grossed $70 million globally to date. Overall, the domestic box office is 20% behind the same point in 2023, according to Comscore.
The steamy, R-rated “Challengers” was originally slated to premiere at 2023’s Venice Film Festival and hit the big screen last fall. But the...
The film, from Amazon MGM, is projected to collect $12 million to $15 million from 3,400 North American theaters in its opening weekend. Although those are modest projections for any nationwide release, it’s this weekend’s only major new movie and shouldn’t have trouble claiming first place from A24’s “Civil War,” the reigning champion. Last weekend, “Civil War” topped the box office for the second consecutive frame with $11.1 million and has grossed $70 million globally to date. Overall, the domestic box office is 20% behind the same point in 2023, according to Comscore.
The steamy, R-rated “Challengers” was originally slated to premiere at 2023’s Venice Film Festival and hit the big screen last fall. But the...
- 4/24/2024
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
The month of April seemingly sailed by with far too many moderate releases, and the month ends this weekend with more of the same. Read on for Gold Derby’s box office preview.
Italian filmmaker Luca Guadagnino returns with the sexy tennis drama “Challengers,” starring the powerhouse trio of Zendaya (“Euphoria”), Josh O’Connor (“The Crown”) and Mike Faist (“West Side Story”) as superstar tennis players who fall into a competitive love triangle. This is Zendaya’s first movie after “Dune: Part Two,” and it will be a real test for her as a box office star, since sports dramas can be hit or miss. “Challengers” really is riding on her popularity to avoid the pitfalls of the genre.
Tennis has had an especially tough time at the box office, as seen by Will Smith‘s Oscar-winning turn in the 2021 release “King Richard,” about the father of Venus and Serena Williams,...
Italian filmmaker Luca Guadagnino returns with the sexy tennis drama “Challengers,” starring the powerhouse trio of Zendaya (“Euphoria”), Josh O’Connor (“The Crown”) and Mike Faist (“West Side Story”) as superstar tennis players who fall into a competitive love triangle. This is Zendaya’s first movie after “Dune: Part Two,” and it will be a real test for her as a box office star, since sports dramas can be hit or miss. “Challengers” really is riding on her popularity to avoid the pitfalls of the genre.
Tennis has had an especially tough time at the box office, as seen by Will Smith‘s Oscar-winning turn in the 2021 release “King Richard,” about the father of Venus and Serena Williams,...
- 4/24/2024
- by Edward Douglas
- Gold Derby
Until recently, filmmaker Jon Erwin was the reigning box-office champ for faith-based films with “I Can Only Imagine” and “Jesus Revolution.” Shortly after “Sound of Freedom” opened to $14.2 million, he offered advice to Angel Studios on how it might capitalize that success.
By November, when the child-trafficking drama grossed $250 million worldwide, Erwin lost his bragging rights. He remembers joking with the producers, “It wasn’t supposed to work this much!”
Ego aside, he welcomed the success. As “Sound of Freedom” inspired box-office think pieces and conspiracy-theory controversy, Erwin and partner Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten were in talks with Amazon Studios. Today, their company The Wonder Project is producing a slate of faith-based series and films; Erwin said he’d “be lying” if he believed “Sound of Freedom” didn’t help him get a better deal.
“I had not felt that hunger from the studios in a long time to reach the audience,...
By November, when the child-trafficking drama grossed $250 million worldwide, Erwin lost his bragging rights. He remembers joking with the producers, “It wasn’t supposed to work this much!”
Ego aside, he welcomed the success. As “Sound of Freedom” inspired box-office think pieces and conspiracy-theory controversy, Erwin and partner Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten were in talks with Amazon Studios. Today, their company The Wonder Project is producing a slate of faith-based series and films; Erwin said he’d “be lying” if he believed “Sound of Freedom” didn’t help him get a better deal.
“I had not felt that hunger from the studios in a long time to reach the audience,...
- 4/9/2024
- by Brian Welk
- Indiewire
Dennis Quaid is an icon, according to CinemaCon.
The annual convention of the National Association of Theatre Owners has zeroed in on the veteran star to receive this year’s Cinema Icon Award. Quaid will be honored during the Big Screen Achievement Awards, hosted by official presenting sponsor the Coca-Cola Company inside the Colosseum at Caesars Palace on April 11. The ceremony will also see trophies handed out to Amy Poehler (vanguard award), Lupita Nyong’o (star of the year), Shawn Levy (director of the year), Joseph Quinn (breakthrough performer of the year award) and Dan Stevens (excellence in acting award).
“From compelling dramas to exhilarating thrillers, Dennis Quaid’s remarkable career is a testament to his talent and versatility as an actor,” said Mitch Neuhauser, managing director of CinemaCon. “His ability to embody diverse characters has captivated audiences for decades with his dedication to crafting authentic portrayals. He is truly a Hollywood icon.
The annual convention of the National Association of Theatre Owners has zeroed in on the veteran star to receive this year’s Cinema Icon Award. Quaid will be honored during the Big Screen Achievement Awards, hosted by official presenting sponsor the Coca-Cola Company inside the Colosseum at Caesars Palace on April 11. The ceremony will also see trophies handed out to Amy Poehler (vanguard award), Lupita Nyong’o (star of the year), Shawn Levy (director of the year), Joseph Quinn (breakthrough performer of the year award) and Dan Stevens (excellence in acting award).
“From compelling dramas to exhilarating thrillers, Dennis Quaid’s remarkable career is a testament to his talent and versatility as an actor,” said Mitch Neuhauser, managing director of CinemaCon. “His ability to embody diverse characters has captivated audiences for decades with his dedication to crafting authentic portrayals. He is truly a Hollywood icon.
- 3/28/2024
- by Chris Gardner
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Driven by their devout Christianity, the Erwin brothers — Andrew and Jon — have never been shy about the agenda behind their work. “Our mission,” it says on their website, “is simply to spread the Gospel further than it’s ever been using film as the medium,” and that mission has seen their Kingdom Story Company evolve into one of the biggest forces in America’s burgeoning “faith-based” sub-genre.
In light of the brothers’ stated purpose, however, it’s strange that they’ve responded to their success by making increasingly secular movies. Perhaps that’s just part of the Erwins’ plan to widen the tent and share Jesus’ light with people who haven’t necessarily sought it out for themselves, but it’s hard to overstate the difference between their self-directed 2012 debut — the virulently anti-abortion drama “October Baby” — and the latest feature they’ve produced, a hokey but harmless Hilary Swank vehicle...
In light of the brothers’ stated purpose, however, it’s strange that they’ve responded to their success by making increasingly secular movies. Perhaps that’s just part of the Erwins’ plan to widen the tent and share Jesus’ light with people who haven’t necessarily sought it out for themselves, but it’s hard to overstate the difference between their self-directed 2012 debut — the virulently anti-abortion drama “October Baby” — and the latest feature they’ve produced, a hokey but harmless Hilary Swank vehicle...
- 2/22/2024
- by David Ehrlich
- Indiewire
‘Ordinary Angels’ Review: Hilary Swank’s Passionate Performance Drives True Faith Based Family Drama
Lionsgate’s collaboration with faith based movie producers Kingdom Story Company has reaped boxoffice rewards for both, and with their latest, Ordinary Angels, the inspiring true story of a small Kentucky town that comes together in a historic snowstorm in order to transport a 3-year-old girl to an Omaha hospital for a life-saving liver transplant, they have another surefire heartfelt film tailor-made for audiences looking for a little uplift. This actually would have made a perfect Christmas season release but has been delayed for several months, now opening in the same February corridor where Kingdom’s surprise hit, Jesus Revolution did well last year. Midwest crowds will especially respond to a never-say-never tale that is about bringing people together, not tearing them apart in this age of division.
At its center is another richly defined and dedicated Hilary Swank performance as the...
At its center is another richly defined and dedicated Hilary Swank performance as the...
- 2/20/2024
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
Those who were disappointed by the January box office will just have to hope things improve in February, the month that has just one government holiday and also a Hallmark holiday, both happening in the same week. Those holidays often lead to some of the month’s bigger releases, so things can still take an uptick. Read on for Gold Derby’s February 2024 box office preview.
“Argylle” (Apple/Universal) – Feb. 2
The movie kicks off the month may also be the biggest, and that’s because filmmaker Matthew Vaughn not only has a great track record with the “Kick-Ass” and “Kingsman” movies, but also because he’s assembled an astounding cast, including Bryce Dallas Howard, Sam Rockwell, Henry Cavill, Bryan Cranston, Samuel L. Jackson, John Cena, Catherine O’Hara, Ariana DeBose and even pop star Dua Lipa. The movie is based on the brand new spy novel by “Elly Conway” (played by...
“Argylle” (Apple/Universal) – Feb. 2
The movie kicks off the month may also be the biggest, and that’s because filmmaker Matthew Vaughn not only has a great track record with the “Kick-Ass” and “Kingsman” movies, but also because he’s assembled an astounding cast, including Bryce Dallas Howard, Sam Rockwell, Henry Cavill, Bryan Cranston, Samuel L. Jackson, John Cena, Catherine O’Hara, Ariana DeBose and even pop star Dua Lipa. The movie is based on the brand new spy novel by “Elly Conway” (played by...
- 1/30/2024
- by Edward Douglas
- Gold Derby
Kick-Ass’s Deborah Twiss Joins Stelio Savante in Nicholl Fellowships Finalist’s ‘24 Hours Of Mayhem’
Kick-Ass’s Deborah Twiss Joins Stelio Savante in Nicholl Fellowships Finalist’s ‘24 Hours Of Mayhem’ Deborah Twiss (Kick Ass) has joined SAG award nominee Stelio Savante (What Remains), Corin Nemec (Dead Man’s Hand), Hannah Fierman (V/H/S), Randy McDowell (I Can Only Imagine) and Bradford Haynes (Paradise City) in the cast of the thriller 24 Hours Of Mayhem by former Nicholl Fellowships finalist & award winning filmmaker E.B. Hughes’ (The Long …
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- 1/18/2024
- by Janel Spiegel
- Horror News
Deborah Twiss (Kick Ass) has joined SAG award nominee Stelio Savante (What Remains), Corin Nemec (Dead Man’s Hand), Hannah Fierman (V/H/S), Randy McDowell (I Can Only Imagine) and Bradford Haynes (Paradise City) in the cast of the thriller 24 Hours Of Mayhem by former Nicholl Fellowships finalist & award winning filmmaker E.B. Hughes‘.
Set in a sleepy seashore town, following a gruesome murder, the film follows Max Crane (Stelio Savante), a tightly wound, grizzled detective, as he attempts to solve a crime with no leads, within 24 Hours.
24 Hours Of Mayhem is being shot on location in New Jersey and is executive produced by Clementine Bentley and Michael Pagnotta, and produced by E.B. Hughes.
Twiss is repped by Roger Paul Talent & Stein Entertainment Group, Savante is with Exclusive Artists Agency & Opus Entertainment, Nemec is repped by Endorse Management Group, Fierman is with People Store, and McDowell is repped by Linda McAlister Talent.
Set in a sleepy seashore town, following a gruesome murder, the film follows Max Crane (Stelio Savante), a tightly wound, grizzled detective, as he attempts to solve a crime with no leads, within 24 Hours.
24 Hours Of Mayhem is being shot on location in New Jersey and is executive produced by Clementine Bentley and Michael Pagnotta, and produced by E.B. Hughes.
Twiss is repped by Roger Paul Talent & Stein Entertainment Group, Savante is with Exclusive Artists Agency & Opus Entertainment, Nemec is repped by Endorse Management Group, Fierman is with People Store, and McDowell is repped by Linda McAlister Talent.
- 12/29/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Stelio Savante Leads Corin Nemec, Hannah Fierman, & Randy McDowell into 24 Hours Of Mayhem Corin Nemec (Dead Man’s Hand, Run Hide Fight) Hannah Fierman (I’ll Be Watching, V/H/S), and Randy McDowell (I Can Only Imagine, Mom’s Night Out) have joined SAG award nominee Stelio Savante (What Remains, Nefarious) in the cast of award winning filmmaker E.B. Hughes’ …
The post Stelio Savante Leads Corin Nemec, Hannah Fierman, & Randy McDowell into 24 Hours Of Mayhem appeared first on Horror News | Hnn.
The post Stelio Savante Leads Corin Nemec, Hannah Fierman, & Randy McDowell into 24 Hours Of Mayhem appeared first on Horror News | Hnn.
- 12/19/2023
- by Janel Spiegel
- Horror News
Veteran producer Jon Erwin and former Netflix and YouTube exec Kelly Merryman Hoogstraten have announced the launch of The Wonder Project, a new independent studio that will cater to faith and values-oriented audiences.
Founded by Chief Content Officer Erwin and overseen by CEO Hoogstraten, The Wonder Project will look to create premium film and TV content for what they see as a huge audience that has traditionally been underserved by the entertainment industry. They’ll aim to build on the marked success in this arena of such recent titles as The Chosen and The Sound of Freedom, as well as older works like The Passion of the Christ, Heaven is for Real, I Can Only Imagine, War Room, Miracles from Heaven, and Soul Surfer, as they build their global audience.
More than $75 million in seed and Series A funding was raised ahead of launch from such major players as Sovereign’s Capital,...
Founded by Chief Content Officer Erwin and overseen by CEO Hoogstraten, The Wonder Project will look to create premium film and TV content for what they see as a huge audience that has traditionally been underserved by the entertainment industry. They’ll aim to build on the marked success in this arena of such recent titles as The Chosen and The Sound of Freedom, as well as older works like The Passion of the Christ, Heaven is for Real, I Can Only Imagine, War Room, Miracles from Heaven, and Soul Surfer, as they build their global audience.
More than $75 million in seed and Series A funding was raised ahead of launch from such major players as Sovereign’s Capital,...
- 12/6/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Santa Isn't Real: "After suffering a brutal attack on Christmas eve, a young woman, Nikki, struggles to convince her friends that the assailant was none other than Ol' Kris Kringle. When Santa returns to terrorize the group in their remote cabin the next Christmas, Nikki and her friends must overcome disbelief as they fight to stay alive."
Written and Directed by: Zac Locke (The Voyeurs, Black Christmas) Country of Origin: USA Language: English Genre: Horror Distributor: XYZ Films Run Time: 76 minutes Cast: Scarlett Sperduto, Dana Millican, Kaya Coleman
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The Cello: "Like many musicians, accomplished Saudi cellist Nasser (Samer Ismail) has aspirations for greatness, though he feels like he’s held back by the old, dilapidated instrument he’s forced to play. When Nasser is offered the chance to take possession of a gorgeous red cello by a mysterious shop owner (Tobin Bell), he finds new inspiration both for his playing and for his composing.
Written and Directed by: Zac Locke (The Voyeurs, Black Christmas) Country of Origin: USA Language: English Genre: Horror Distributor: XYZ Films Run Time: 76 minutes Cast: Scarlett Sperduto, Dana Millican, Kaya Coleman
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The Cello: "Like many musicians, accomplished Saudi cellist Nasser (Samer Ismail) has aspirations for greatness, though he feels like he’s held back by the old, dilapidated instrument he’s forced to play. When Nasser is offered the chance to take possession of a gorgeous red cello by a mysterious shop owner (Tobin Bell), he finds new inspiration both for his playing and for his composing.
- 12/4/2023
- by Jonathan James
- DailyDead
Corin Nemec Hannah Fierman, and Randy McDowell have joined SAG award nominee Stelio Savante in the cast of award-winning filmmaker E.B. Hughes‘ thriller, 24 Hours Of Mayhem.
Set in a sleepy seashore town, following a gruesome murder, the film follows Max Crane (Stelio Savante), a tightly wound, grizzled detective, as he attempts to solve a crime with no leads, within 24 Hours.
Written and directed by Nicholl Fellowships Finalist E.B. Hughes, the film will be shot on location in New Jersey. The lead cast is rounded out by Randy McDowell and Bradford Haynes.
24 Hours Of Mayhem is executive produced by Clementine Bentley and Michael Pagnotta, and produced by E.B. Hughes.
Nemec is repped by Endorse Management Group, Fierman is with People Store, McDowell is repped by Linda McAlister Talent, and Savante is with Exclusive Artists Agency and Opus Entertainment.
The post Stelio Savante Leads Corin Nemec, Hannah Fierman, & Randy McDowell...
Set in a sleepy seashore town, following a gruesome murder, the film follows Max Crane (Stelio Savante), a tightly wound, grizzled detective, as he attempts to solve a crime with no leads, within 24 Hours.
Written and directed by Nicholl Fellowships Finalist E.B. Hughes, the film will be shot on location in New Jersey. The lead cast is rounded out by Randy McDowell and Bradford Haynes.
24 Hours Of Mayhem is executive produced by Clementine Bentley and Michael Pagnotta, and produced by E.B. Hughes.
Nemec is repped by Endorse Management Group, Fierman is with People Store, McDowell is repped by Linda McAlister Talent, and Savante is with Exclusive Artists Agency and Opus Entertainment.
The post Stelio Savante Leads Corin Nemec, Hannah Fierman, & Randy McDowell...
- 12/2/2023
- by Kulwant Singh
- Cinema Blind
Director/producer Brent Ryan Green has optioned the exclusive film and television rights to develop and produce an adaptation of “King Raven,” a trilogy of historical novels by Stephen R. Lawhead. The books set the tale of Robin Hood in the late 11th century amid the Norman invasion of Wales.
Steeped in lore and the political intrigue of medieval Britain, Lawhead presents a historically plausible origin story for Robin Hood. Each title within the series is told from the viewpoint of a member of the Sherwood Forest clan in an entirely new setting.
The trilogy follows the journey of a young Welsh noble, Bran Ap Brychan, as he’s met with the trials and obstacles that craft him into King Raven, better known as Robin Hood.
Green has been credited on more than 70 film and television projects during his nearly 20 years in the industry. Past projects range from box office...
Steeped in lore and the political intrigue of medieval Britain, Lawhead presents a historically plausible origin story for Robin Hood. Each title within the series is told from the viewpoint of a member of the Sherwood Forest clan in an entirely new setting.
The trilogy follows the journey of a young Welsh noble, Bran Ap Brychan, as he’s met with the trials and obstacles that craft him into King Raven, better known as Robin Hood.
Green has been credited on more than 70 film and television projects during his nearly 20 years in the industry. Past projects range from box office...
- 11/29/2023
- by Leo Barraclough
- Variety Film + TV
Trinity Creative Partnership have snapped up U.K. sales rights for historical war film “Love, Courage and the Battle for Bushy Run,” which is launching at AFM.
Set in 1763, “Love, Courage and the Battle for Bushy Run” is a historical drama set against the backdrop of one of the most defining moments in American history, the battle of Bushy Run. Dave Alan Johnson (“Christmas with Tucker”) and Larry A. McClean (“Pacific Rim”) direct from a screenplay by Charlie Richards (“House Rules”).
The battle unfolds during the Pontiac’s War in the aftermath of Britain’s 1763 triumph over France when a clash of cultures and strategies in the American Colonies took tensions to new heights.
“As Native tribes, driven by fear of British retaliation, unite under the leadership of Ottawa Chief Pontiac, the film explores the unconventional and brutal tactics employed in their quest to capture Fort Pitt,” reads the logline.
Set in 1763, “Love, Courage and the Battle for Bushy Run” is a historical drama set against the backdrop of one of the most defining moments in American history, the battle of Bushy Run. Dave Alan Johnson (“Christmas with Tucker”) and Larry A. McClean (“Pacific Rim”) direct from a screenplay by Charlie Richards (“House Rules”).
The battle unfolds during the Pontiac’s War in the aftermath of Britain’s 1763 triumph over France when a clash of cultures and strategies in the American Colonies took tensions to new heights.
“As Native tribes, driven by fear of British retaliation, unite under the leadership of Ottawa Chief Pontiac, the film explores the unconventional and brutal tactics employed in their quest to capture Fort Pitt,” reads the logline.
- 10/31/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Hillary Swank rallies her entire town to help out a neighbor in the latest trailer for Lionsgate’s true-life faith-based drama “Ordinary Angels.”
The two-time Oscar winner plays a hairdresser who inserts herself into the life of a grieving widower with a critically ill daughter. The kid needs a new liver, and the dad just needs a little help. As revealed in the trailer, circumstances change when a new organ becomes available for transplant, but it requires a cross-country flight and happens to occur during a once-in-a-generation cold front.
Swank won two Best Actress Oscars, one in 2000 for “Boys Don’t Cry” and one in 2005 for “Million Dollar Baby.” Although she never really became a bankable draw, she has made a career out of mostly top-billed leading roles in films like “Amelia,” “The Core” and “The Gift.” Moreover, she almost never found herself just playing the love interest or the lone woman in a macho melodrama,...
The two-time Oscar winner plays a hairdresser who inserts herself into the life of a grieving widower with a critically ill daughter. The kid needs a new liver, and the dad just needs a little help. As revealed in the trailer, circumstances change when a new organ becomes available for transplant, but it requires a cross-country flight and happens to occur during a once-in-a-generation cold front.
Swank won two Best Actress Oscars, one in 2000 for “Boys Don’t Cry” and one in 2005 for “Million Dollar Baby.” Although she never really became a bankable draw, she has made a career out of mostly top-billed leading roles in films like “Amelia,” “The Core” and “The Gift.” Moreover, she almost never found herself just playing the love interest or the lone woman in a macho melodrama,...
- 8/29/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
“Sound of Freedom,” a religious thriller led by “The Passion of the Christ” star Jim Caviezel, is becoming an unlikely box office savior. The faith-based movie about child sex trafficking has collected an impressive $40 million after six days of release.
“Sound of Freedom” opened last Tuesday, generating a mighty $14.2 million on the Independence Day holiday. The film picked up another $18.2 million between Friday and Sunday, enough to place third on domestic box office charts behind “Insidious: The Red Door” ($32.6 million) and “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” ($26.5 million). It’s playing in 2,850 North American theaters, a smaller footprint than “Insidious” and “Indiana Jones.
“As with our July 4th numbers, today’s numbers exceed our expectations, and we’re going to continue this momentum,” said Brandon Purdie, head of theatrical distribution at Angel Studios, the independent studio that’s backing the film, in a statement. “We’re getting messages from...
“Sound of Freedom” opened last Tuesday, generating a mighty $14.2 million on the Independence Day holiday. The film picked up another $18.2 million between Friday and Sunday, enough to place third on domestic box office charts behind “Insidious: The Red Door” ($32.6 million) and “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” ($26.5 million). It’s playing in 2,850 North American theaters, a smaller footprint than “Insidious” and “Indiana Jones.
“As with our July 4th numbers, today’s numbers exceed our expectations, and we’re going to continue this momentum,” said Brandon Purdie, head of theatrical distribution at Angel Studios, the independent studio that’s backing the film, in a statement. “We’re getting messages from...
- 7/9/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Briarcliff Entertainment has snapped up North American distribution rights from Concourse Media to Christian Swegal’s true crime thriller Sovereign, starring Nick Offerman, Dennis Quaid and Jacob Tremblay.
Swegal wrote and will direct later this year in Arkansas. A theatrical release during Q4 2024 is planned.
Based on real events, the story follows a father and son (Offerman and Tremblay) who identify as Sovereign Citizens, a group of anti-government extremists, as they venture across the country and find themselves in a standoff with a chief of police (Dennis Quaid) that sets off an intense manhunt with tragic consequences.
“Sovereign is a timely and captivating story and all of us at Briarcliff are looking forward to working with Christian, Nick, the Concourse team and this stellar cast on what will be a gripping ride for movie audiences,” said Tom Ortenberg, Briarcliff Entertainment CEO.
“We are beyond excited to be partnering with...
Swegal wrote and will direct later this year in Arkansas. A theatrical release during Q4 2024 is planned.
Based on real events, the story follows a father and son (Offerman and Tremblay) who identify as Sovereign Citizens, a group of anti-government extremists, as they venture across the country and find themselves in a standoff with a chief of police (Dennis Quaid) that sets off an intense manhunt with tragic consequences.
“Sovereign is a timely and captivating story and all of us at Briarcliff are looking forward to working with Christian, Nick, the Concourse team and this stellar cast on what will be a gripping ride for movie audiences,” said Tom Ortenberg, Briarcliff Entertainment CEO.
“We are beyond excited to be partnering with...
- 5/22/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Roadside Attractions has acquired the U.S. rights to “Camp Hideout” and will release the family comedy theatrically in the fall.
The film follows a troubled teen named Noah (Ethan Drew), who nearly gets caught stealing a top-secret gadget from some big city thugs. He then barely escapes by hiding in a summer camp run by the eccentric Falco (Christopher Lloyd) and counselors Jake (Corbin Bleu) and Selena (Amanda Leighton). While Noah tries to blend in with the rest of the rowdy campers, his crooked partners show up to steal the classified item from Noah. What follows is a series of wacky and zany events complete with home-made booby traps as Noah tries to escape the goons.
The movie was directed by Sean Olson (“F.R.E.D.I.”) and produced by Phillip Glasser (“The War With Grandpa“) and Jason Brown (“Noobz”). Bleu was one of the stars of “High School Musical.
The film follows a troubled teen named Noah (Ethan Drew), who nearly gets caught stealing a top-secret gadget from some big city thugs. He then barely escapes by hiding in a summer camp run by the eccentric Falco (Christopher Lloyd) and counselors Jake (Corbin Bleu) and Selena (Amanda Leighton). While Noah tries to blend in with the rest of the rowdy campers, his crooked partners show up to steal the classified item from Noah. What follows is a series of wacky and zany events complete with home-made booby traps as Noah tries to escape the goons.
The movie was directed by Sean Olson (“F.R.E.D.I.”) and produced by Phillip Glasser (“The War With Grandpa“) and Jason Brown (“Noobz”). Bleu was one of the stars of “High School Musical.
- 5/16/2023
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
On Easter weekend, TheWrap lists the top 10 highest grossing Christian films in box office history.
10.”Miracles From Heaven” (2016)
The Jennifer Garner film made $61.7 million this year on a budget of $13 million, good for eighth all time, adjusted for inflation.
9. “God’s Not Dead” (2014)
Starring Kevin Sorbo, Shane Harper, David A.R. White, and Dean Cain, “God’s Not Dead” opened to $60.8 million in 2014 ($61.8 million adjusted for inflation) on a budget of $2 million. Its box office success warranted a 2016 sequel.
8. “Exodus: Gods and Kings” (2014)
The film starring Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, John Turturro and Aaron Paul grossed $65 million domestically.
7. “War Room” (2015)
The Sony Pictures film raised holy hell at the box office when it opened in August of 2015. It ended up making $67.8 million on a budget of $3 million. Adjusted for inflation, that’s $68.8 million.
6. “I Can Only Imagine” (2018)
Jon and Andrew Erwins’ take on the story behind MercyMe’s record-setting Christian single was so...
10.”Miracles From Heaven” (2016)
The Jennifer Garner film made $61.7 million this year on a budget of $13 million, good for eighth all time, adjusted for inflation.
9. “God’s Not Dead” (2014)
Starring Kevin Sorbo, Shane Harper, David A.R. White, and Dean Cain, “God’s Not Dead” opened to $60.8 million in 2014 ($61.8 million adjusted for inflation) on a budget of $2 million. Its box office success warranted a 2016 sequel.
8. “Exodus: Gods and Kings” (2014)
The film starring Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton, John Turturro and Aaron Paul grossed $65 million domestically.
7. “War Room” (2015)
The Sony Pictures film raised holy hell at the box office when it opened in August of 2015. It ended up making $67.8 million on a budget of $3 million. Adjusted for inflation, that’s $68.8 million.
6. “I Can Only Imagine” (2018)
Jon and Andrew Erwins’ take on the story behind MercyMe’s record-setting Christian single was so...
- 4/9/2023
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Lew Wallace's 1880 novel "Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ" has been adapted into film many times. Much like the regular remakes of "A Star is Born," including the 2018 version, every adaptation reveals something about where Hollywood was at the time of its making. The story is a sprawling biblical epic, one that suggests a kind of maximum blockbuster potential, with naval war scenes and gladiatorial combat. Silent adaptations were made in 1909 and 1927, but the most enduring (and human) take on the story was the four-hour 1959 epic directed by William Wyler.
So why did the 2016 take on "Ben-Hur" fail to make any kind of impact -- or even its budget back at the box office? It's not as if the story is any less rich in the current day. Positive memories of the definitive Wyler take on the story surely linger. And that story's brand of action and masculine themes,...
So why did the 2016 take on "Ben-Hur" fail to make any kind of impact -- or even its budget back at the box office? It's not as if the story is any less rich in the current day. Positive memories of the definitive Wyler take on the story surely linger. And that story's brand of action and masculine themes,...
- 3/11/2023
- by Anthony Crislip
- Slash Film
Digital media company Cinedigm Corp. has acquired the streaming service Christian Cinema and Dove.org, a movie review site for Christian-themed films.
Terms of the deals were not disclosed, but they expand Cinedigm’s presence in the faith and family content space. Dove.org is a movie review and ratings service, and the transaction will see the property combined with Cinedigm’s existing streamer Dove Channel.
Christian Cinema, acquired from the Giving Company, is a video-on-demand service for faith-based films, and allows consumers to buy or rent movies with Christian values. Christian Cinema is also available via Apple TV, iOS, Android, Roku, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, and Amazon Fire tablets.
“This pair of acquisitions immediately provides us with an established consumer base, immediately accretive revenue, and multiple new avenues for growth. Much like we have done in other verticals, we expect to dramatically ramp up our offerings in original theatrical releases,...
Terms of the deals were not disclosed, but they expand Cinedigm’s presence in the faith and family content space. Dove.org is a movie review and ratings service, and the transaction will see the property combined with Cinedigm’s existing streamer Dove Channel.
Christian Cinema, acquired from the Giving Company, is a video-on-demand service for faith-based films, and allows consumers to buy or rent movies with Christian values. Christian Cinema is also available via Apple TV, iOS, Android, Roku, Chromecast, Amazon Fire TV, and Amazon Fire tablets.
“This pair of acquisitions immediately provides us with an established consumer base, immediately accretive revenue, and multiple new avenues for growth. Much like we have done in other verticals, we expect to dramatically ramp up our offerings in original theatrical releases,...
- 2/28/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
It was a big, weird weekend at the box office as Marvel's "Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania" had to fight much harder than expected to fend off Universal's horror-comedy "Cocaine Bear." On the one hand, "Quantumania" suffered the biggest second-weekend drop ever for a Marvel movie of 69.7% to top the charts once again with a somewhat modest (by Marvel Cinematic Universe standards) $32.2 million. Frankly, it was a much closer fight than anyone anticipated.
Since "Quantumania" made $106.1 million last weekend, "Cocaine Bear" probably shouldn't have had a fighting chance. Yet, per Box Office Mojo, Elizabeth Banks' buzzy, R-rated flick took in $23 million, far exceeding expectations. Now, was there any chance of it taking the top spot away from "Ant-Man?" Not really, but it's remarkable just how close it was. The difference being that, very clearly, word of mouth for Paul Rudd's latest adventure in the MCU has not been good.
Since "Quantumania" made $106.1 million last weekend, "Cocaine Bear" probably shouldn't have had a fighting chance. Yet, per Box Office Mojo, Elizabeth Banks' buzzy, R-rated flick took in $23 million, far exceeding expectations. Now, was there any chance of it taking the top spot away from "Ant-Man?" Not really, but it's remarkable just how close it was. The difference being that, very clearly, word of mouth for Paul Rudd's latest adventure in the MCU has not been good.
- 2/27/2023
- by Ryan Scott
- Slash Film
While studios have generally tried to avoid the second weekend of Marvel movies in recent years, this weekend proved beneficial for the two studios that dared to do so.
SEEAnnie Awards: ‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’ wins 5 including Best Studio Animated Feature
Although Marvel’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” was thought to be the movie that could give the box office a kick-start for the year, that didn’t last very long. This weekend, it took a massive 70% drop – the worst second weekend drop for any Marvel Studios movie ever – though it remained in first place with an estimated $32.2 million. It has grossed $167.3 million in North America so far, which isn’t bad for 10 days. It has already passed the domestic total for the 2021 Marvel movie “Eternals,” and it’s nearing the $180 million that the first “Ant-Man” movie made over the summer of 2015. It has grossed another $196 million overseas with $46 million just from this weekend.
SEEAnnie Awards: ‘Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio’ wins 5 including Best Studio Animated Feature
Although Marvel’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” was thought to be the movie that could give the box office a kick-start for the year, that didn’t last very long. This weekend, it took a massive 70% drop – the worst second weekend drop for any Marvel Studios movie ever – though it remained in first place with an estimated $32.2 million. It has grossed $167.3 million in North America so far, which isn’t bad for 10 days. It has already passed the domestic total for the 2021 Marvel movie “Eternals,” and it’s nearing the $180 million that the first “Ant-Man” movie made over the summer of 2015. It has grossed another $196 million overseas with $46 million just from this weekend.
- 2/26/2023
- by Edward Douglas
- Gold Derby
The really good news this weekend — two new openings combined grossing close to double their expectations — counterbalanced the grim result of a Marvel release collapsing in its second weekend.
“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” (Disney) retained its #1 position the second weekend but with a 70 percent drop — the biggest fall ever for a Marvel title from the studio. “Black Widow” at 68 percent was the previous worst decrease (it also had PVOD access on Disney+). It’s slightly worse than “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” which, at the time, felt like a bad omen for that Warner Bros. franchise.
It’s a warning sign, though hardly suggestive of any imminent danger, that theaters can’t assume franchise/comic book movies will always sustain box office. That’s why when two much lower budget titles — both originals, both with less than guaranteed results — do quite well, it establishes that there are alternatives to comic book universe sequels.
“Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” (Disney) retained its #1 position the second weekend but with a 70 percent drop — the biggest fall ever for a Marvel title from the studio. “Black Widow” at 68 percent was the previous worst decrease (it also had PVOD access on Disney+). It’s slightly worse than “Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice” which, at the time, felt like a bad omen for that Warner Bros. franchise.
It’s a warning sign, though hardly suggestive of any imminent danger, that theaters can’t assume franchise/comic book movies will always sustain box office. That’s why when two much lower budget titles — both originals, both with less than guaranteed results — do quite well, it establishes that there are alternatives to comic book universe sequels.
- 2/26/2023
- by Tom Brueggemann
- Indiewire
After its strong opening weekend, Marvel Studios’ “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” is shaping up to be a historically frontloaded superhero film at the box office, plummeting 69% in its second weekend to $32 million.
Given its mixed reviews and audience reception, analysts and rival distributors were not expecting the third “Ant-Man” movie to make more than $40 million this weekend. But barring a much stronger-than-expected Sunday, this movie will have the largest second-weekend drop in the history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the largest drop for any superhero movie with a $100 million-plus opening since the 69.6% drop of “Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice” in 2016.
With a 10-day total of $164 million, “Quantumania” should have enough momentum to cross the $200 million mark at the domestic box office. But with such a steep drop it is now questionable whether the film will have enough fuel against stiff March blockbuster competition to even pass the...
Given its mixed reviews and audience reception, analysts and rival distributors were not expecting the third “Ant-Man” movie to make more than $40 million this weekend. But barring a much stronger-than-expected Sunday, this movie will have the largest second-weekend drop in the history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the largest drop for any superhero movie with a $100 million-plus opening since the 69.6% drop of “Batman v. Superman: Dawn of Justice” in 2016.
With a 10-day total of $164 million, “Quantumania” should have enough momentum to cross the $200 million mark at the domestic box office. But with such a steep drop it is now questionable whether the film will have enough fuel against stiff March blockbuster competition to even pass the...
- 2/26/2023
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Universal’s horror-comedy “Cocaine Bear” blew past box office projections, earning an impressive $23 million from 3,534 North American theaters in its opening weekend. The blood-splattered animal adventure landed in second place on domestic charts behind Disney’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania,” which all but collapsed in its sophomore outing.
“Ant-Man 3” managed to remain in first place given its huge $106 million opening, but the comic book installment is suffering from negative word-of-mouth. It added $32.2 million from 4,345 venues in its second weekend of release, marking a brutal 69% decline from its debut.
Now, “Quantumania” holds the ignominious distinction as the biggest week-to-week drop in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including “Thor: Love and Thunder” (which fell 67%), “Black Widow” (which plunged 67.8% while debuting simultaneously on Disney Plus) and “Eternals” (which fell 62% after equally bad reviews). Globally, the movie has generated $364 million, including $167 million domestically and $196 million internationally.
Elizabeth Banks directed “Cocaine Bear,” which earned...
“Ant-Man 3” managed to remain in first place given its huge $106 million opening, but the comic book installment is suffering from negative word-of-mouth. It added $32.2 million from 4,345 venues in its second weekend of release, marking a brutal 69% decline from its debut.
Now, “Quantumania” holds the ignominious distinction as the biggest week-to-week drop in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including “Thor: Love and Thunder” (which fell 67%), “Black Widow” (which plunged 67.8% while debuting simultaneously on Disney Plus) and “Eternals” (which fell 62% after equally bad reviews). Globally, the movie has generated $364 million, including $167 million domestically and $196 million internationally.
Elizabeth Banks directed “Cocaine Bear,” which earned...
- 2/26/2023
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Half a century ago Hollywood was frantically trying to figure out the newly-dominant “youth market.” Since some of that market had recently found Jesus, there was a brief spate of related films: Zefferelli’s hippie-fied St. Francis biopic “Brother Sun, Sister Moon,” adapted stage musicals “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Godspell,” the Billy Graham-produced “A Time to Run” chief among them. But as the “Jesus Movement” got absorbed into more mainstream institutions, the brief vogue flickered out.
For a moment there, however, counterculture and Christ had a groovy thing going on, one that promised both salvation for those who’d gone overboard on sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll, as well as a healthy shakeup of churches that had lost touch with younger generations. Dramatizing that moment is “Jesus Revolution,” an engaging, upbeat new effort from co-directors Jon Erwin (“I Can Only Imagine”) and Brent McCorkle (“Unconditional”), adapted from Greg Laurie’s memoir.
For a moment there, however, counterculture and Christ had a groovy thing going on, one that promised both salvation for those who’d gone overboard on sex, drugs and rock ’n’ roll, as well as a healthy shakeup of churches that had lost touch with younger generations. Dramatizing that moment is “Jesus Revolution,” an engaging, upbeat new effort from co-directors Jon Erwin (“I Can Only Imagine”) and Brent McCorkle (“Unconditional”), adapted from Greg Laurie’s memoir.
- 2/23/2023
- by Dennis Harvey
- Variety Film + TV
It is not often these days that you get a Hollywood studio release born out of the late-’60s and ’70s hippie movement, but in blending a true-life faith-based story with the uninhibited counterculture of the time, you have Jesus Revolution. It’s the latest spiritual exercise from the Erwin Brothers’ Kingdom Story Company virtual factory of inspirational faith-based films that really took hold with their 2018 smash hit I Can Only Imagine and more recently included the Kurt Warner football story American Underdog.
Unlike many films in the genre, which find their greatest box office success in the South and Midwest, the Erwins don’t dwell on pounding the message into their movies (thank God for that), but there is no question that belief in God when you might be at the lowest point of your life, questioning everything, is a key component, and clearly they look to real life for their inspiration.
Unlike many films in the genre, which find their greatest box office success in the South and Midwest, the Erwins don’t dwell on pounding the message into their movies (thank God for that), but there is no question that belief in God when you might be at the lowest point of your life, questioning everything, is a key component, and clearly they look to real life for their inspiration.
- 2/22/2023
- by Pete Hammond
- Deadline Film + TV
We’re almost through the month of February, and while Marvel’s “Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania” should remain #1, it’s likely to have a pretty major drop based on its “B” CinemaScore, and the fact that it opened over a holiday weekend. Look for “Ant-Man” to bring in around $40 million or possibly even less on its second weekend. Read on for Gold Derby’s box office preview.
As far as new movies, Universal is offering “Cocaine Bear,” a wild R-rated horror-comedy about a bear that finds and eats a package of coke it finds in the woods and then goes on a rampage. Based on a true story, this one is directed by Elizabeth Banks, and it stars Keri Russell, Alden Ehrenreich, O’Shea Jackson Jr, Isaiah Whitlock Jr, Margo Martindale and the late, great Ray Liotta. It’s a fun cast, but the real selling point will be the...
As far as new movies, Universal is offering “Cocaine Bear,” a wild R-rated horror-comedy about a bear that finds and eats a package of coke it finds in the woods and then goes on a rampage. Based on a true story, this one is directed by Elizabeth Banks, and it stars Keri Russell, Alden Ehrenreich, O’Shea Jackson Jr, Isaiah Whitlock Jr, Margo Martindale and the late, great Ray Liotta. It’s a fun cast, but the real selling point will be the...
- 2/22/2023
- by Edward Douglas
- Gold Derby
Prime Video’s list of new releases for June 2022 features the one superhero show this season you’re not gonna want to miss.
That’s right: The Boys are (almost) back in town. The Boys season 3 premieres its first three episodes on June 3 and its cast and crew have promised spectacle beyond your wildest dreams. How will Homelander adapt to life after Stormfront? We’ll get to find out soon.
Read more TV The Boys: How Jensen Ackles’ Soldier Boy “Shakes Things Up” in Season 3 By Alec Bojalad TV The Boys Season 3 Trailer: There’s Something Wrong With Homelander By Alec Bojalad
Aside from that one very big hit, it’s a relatively light month for Prime Video originals of note. June 17 sees the arrival of two light and breezy summer projects. The Summer I Turned Pretty is a movie adapted from a trio of beloved YA novels. Meanwhile The Lake...
That’s right: The Boys are (almost) back in town. The Boys season 3 premieres its first three episodes on June 3 and its cast and crew have promised spectacle beyond your wildest dreams. How will Homelander adapt to life after Stormfront? We’ll get to find out soon.
Read more TV The Boys: How Jensen Ackles’ Soldier Boy “Shakes Things Up” in Season 3 By Alec Bojalad TV The Boys Season 3 Trailer: There’s Something Wrong With Homelander By Alec Bojalad
Aside from that one very big hit, it’s a relatively light month for Prime Video originals of note. June 17 sees the arrival of two light and breezy summer projects. The Summer I Turned Pretty is a movie adapted from a trio of beloved YA novels. Meanwhile The Lake...
- 6/1/2022
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Exclusive: Producer and bestselling author DeVon Franklin has found his first major film role in Lionsgate and Kingdom Story Company’s Jesus Revolution. He joins an ensemble that also includes Kelsey Grammer, Joel Courtney, Anna Grace Barlow, Jonathan Roumie, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, Ally Ioannides, Julia Campbell, Nic Bishop and Jolie Jenkins, as previously announced.
The film set in the 1970s watches as a young Greg Laurie (Courtney) sets out to redefine truth through all means of liberation, and instead, meets Lonnie Frisbee (Roumie), a charismatic hippie street preacher. Laurie and Frisbee, along with Pastor Chuck Smith (Grammer), open the doors of Smith’s languishing church to an unexpected revival by way of rock and roll, newfound love, and a twist of faith leading to a Jesus Revolution that changed the world. Franklin will play Josiah, a New York news reporter covering a story on the magnitude of the movement unfolding.
Jon Erwin and Brent McCorkle (Unconditional) are directing from a script by Erwin and Jon Gunn. Kevin Downes and Jon and Andrew Erwin are producing alongside Josh Walsh (The Jesus Music) and Daryl Lefever (Woodlawn).
“Anyone who knows DeVon knows he is one of the most respected and successful producers in the industry, but they also know his devotion and commitment to inspiring people through entertainment,” said director Jon Erwin. “It is part of his DNA, and we are privileged that someone who is usually behind the scenes has graciously agreed to step in front of the camera for us for this important role and this story.”
“I was excited and nervous when they approached me to act,” added Franklin, “yet once I read the script, I knew I had to be part of bringing this powerful true story to the screen.”
Franklin serves as President and CEO of Franklin Entertainment, a production company boasting first-look deals with Paramount Pictures and CBS TV Studios. He has been the driving force behind some of Hollywood’s most successful inspirational content, including the soon-to-be-released movie Flamin’ Hot for Searchlight and the television series Kingdom Business for BET+. In addition to his work as a producer, Franklin is the author of multiple bestselling books. His Audible Original, It Takes a Woman—a deeply personal look into the tragedy that transformed his family’s life—was released in April.
Franklin serves the Hollywood community at large as Vice President of the Board of Governors for the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences. The LA-based USC grad is repped by WME and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller.
The film set in the 1970s watches as a young Greg Laurie (Courtney) sets out to redefine truth through all means of liberation, and instead, meets Lonnie Frisbee (Roumie), a charismatic hippie street preacher. Laurie and Frisbee, along with Pastor Chuck Smith (Grammer), open the doors of Smith’s languishing church to an unexpected revival by way of rock and roll, newfound love, and a twist of faith leading to a Jesus Revolution that changed the world. Franklin will play Josiah, a New York news reporter covering a story on the magnitude of the movement unfolding.
Jon Erwin and Brent McCorkle (Unconditional) are directing from a script by Erwin and Jon Gunn. Kevin Downes and Jon and Andrew Erwin are producing alongside Josh Walsh (The Jesus Music) and Daryl Lefever (Woodlawn).
“Anyone who knows DeVon knows he is one of the most respected and successful producers in the industry, but they also know his devotion and commitment to inspiring people through entertainment,” said director Jon Erwin. “It is part of his DNA, and we are privileged that someone who is usually behind the scenes has graciously agreed to step in front of the camera for us for this important role and this story.”
“I was excited and nervous when they approached me to act,” added Franklin, “yet once I read the script, I knew I had to be part of bringing this powerful true story to the screen.”
Franklin serves as President and CEO of Franklin Entertainment, a production company boasting first-look deals with Paramount Pictures and CBS TV Studios. He has been the driving force behind some of Hollywood’s most successful inspirational content, including the soon-to-be-released movie Flamin’ Hot for Searchlight and the television series Kingdom Business for BET+. In addition to his work as a producer, Franklin is the author of multiple bestselling books. His Audible Original, It Takes a Woman—a deeply personal look into the tragedy that transformed his family’s life—was released in April.
Franklin serves the Hollywood community at large as Vice President of the Board of Governors for the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences. The LA-based USC grad is repped by WME and Hansen, Jacobson, Teller.
- 5/12/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Fathom Events and filmmakers Jon and Andrew Erwin announced at CinemaCon that the events cinema company will team up with the Erwins’ Kingdom Story Company to release the documentary “Johnny Cash: Redemption of an American Icon” this fall.
The documentary from the faith-based filmmaking brothers will recount a critical period in Cash’s life and career. The year was 1971, with Cash releasing arguably his most famous album “Man In Black” while stuck in a cycle of depression and drug addiction. So begins a road to redemption for the iconic country star and a gradual return to an “unshakeable faith” that would influence some of his most famous songs like “The Man Comes Around.”
The Erwins released one of the most successful faith-based films in box office history with the 2018 movie “I Can Only Imagine,” which grossed 86 million against a 7 million budget. The profit from that film was used to fund...
The documentary from the faith-based filmmaking brothers will recount a critical period in Cash’s life and career. The year was 1971, with Cash releasing arguably his most famous album “Man In Black” while stuck in a cycle of depression and drug addiction. So begins a road to redemption for the iconic country star and a gradual return to an “unshakeable faith” that would influence some of his most famous songs like “The Man Comes Around.”
The Erwins released one of the most successful faith-based films in box office history with the 2018 movie “I Can Only Imagine,” which grossed 86 million against a 7 million budget. The profit from that film was used to fund...
- 4/28/2022
- by Jeremy Fuster
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Two-time Academy Award winner Hilary Swank (Million Dollar Baby) and Reacher breakout Alan Ritchson have signed on to star in the film Ordinary Angels from Kingdom Story Company, which Lionsgate will distribute.
Set against the backdrop of the worst snowstorm in Kentucky history, pic is inspired by the incredible true story of a struggling hairdresser (Swank) who single-handedly rallies an entire community to help a widowed father (Ritchson) save the life of his critically ill young daughter.
Jon Gunn (The Unbreakable Boy) is directing, having written the most recent draft of the script with Jon Erwin. Meg Tilly and Kelly Fremon Craig penned an earlier draft. Kingdom Story Company’s Kevin Downes, Jon Erwin and Andrew Erwin are producing alongside Stampede Ventures’ Jon Berg, Vertigo Entertainment’s Roy Lee, Stolen Sky Productions’ Dave Matthews and Johnathan Dorfman, and Green Hummingbird Entertainment’s David Beal and Sarah Johnson. Chelsea Kujawa...
Set against the backdrop of the worst snowstorm in Kentucky history, pic is inspired by the incredible true story of a struggling hairdresser (Swank) who single-handedly rallies an entire community to help a widowed father (Ritchson) save the life of his critically ill young daughter.
Jon Gunn (The Unbreakable Boy) is directing, having written the most recent draft of the script with Jon Erwin. Meg Tilly and Kelly Fremon Craig penned an earlier draft. Kingdom Story Company’s Kevin Downes, Jon Erwin and Andrew Erwin are producing alongside Stampede Ventures’ Jon Berg, Vertigo Entertainment’s Roy Lee, Stolen Sky Productions’ Dave Matthews and Johnathan Dorfman, and Green Hummingbird Entertainment’s David Beal and Sarah Johnson. Chelsea Kujawa...
- 3/24/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Santa Monica, CA – Based on the inspirational true story of two-time NFL Mvp, Super Bowl Mvp, and Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner, American Underdog arrives on Digital February 4 and on 4K Ultra HD Combo Pack (plus Blu-ray and Digital), Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital), DVD, and On Demand February 22 from Lionsgate. From The Erwin Brothers (I Still Believe and I Can Only Imagine) and screenwriters Jon Erwin (I Still Believe and I Can Only Imagine) & David Aaron Cohen (Friday Night Lights) and Jon Gunn (I Still Believe), the film stars Zachary Levi, Ser’Darius Blain, and Primetime Emmy® Award nominee Dennis Quaid.
American Underdog tells the inspirational true story of Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi), who went from a stockboy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL Mvp, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. The film centers on Warner’s unique story and years of challenges...
American Underdog tells the inspirational true story of Kurt Warner (Zachary Levi), who went from a stockboy at a grocery store to a two-time NFL Mvp, Super Bowl champion, and Hall of Fame quarterback. The film centers on Warner’s unique story and years of challenges...
- 1/27/2022
- by ComicMix Staff
- Comicmix.com
This past weekend saw box office records getting shattered left and right as Spider-Man: No Way Home scored the second highest domestic opening of all time, taking the box office beyond merely being “good for the pandemic.” In one weekend it became the year’s top grossing film in the U.S. and the sixth highest worldwide, and by the end of the year it may very well become number one. While Spider-Man will continue to reign at the box office for a number of weeks (it just took home the third best Monday gross ever), the slew of films big and small opening this week promises something for everyone, and the Christmas frame won’t be entirely dominated by the webslinger.
The most hotly anticipated of the new releases is The Matrix Resurrections which opens Wednesday. The fourth film in the series, and the first in 19 years, is helmed...
The most hotly anticipated of the new releases is The Matrix Resurrections which opens Wednesday. The fourth film in the series, and the first in 19 years, is helmed...
- 12/21/2021
- by Sam Mendelsohn <mail@boxofficemojo.com>
- Box Office Mojo
Exclusive: Roadside Attractions, the Oscar winning distributor of such movies as Judy and Manchester by the Sea, saw a shake-up today with two of its longtime executives, Marketing Boss Dennis O’Connor and SVP of Publicity, David Pollick departing the company, in addition to other cuts in their departments.
Also departing is Head of Field Publicity Ronit Vanderlinden and David Hawkins in Distribution, we hear.
Roadside Attractions Co-Presidents and Co-Founders Howard Cohen and Eric d’Arbeloff tell Deadline, “As we emerge from Covid and assemble a new slate of films for the changing theatrical marketplace, we have decided to restructure Roadside’s marketing and distribution organization for the near-term future.”
Lionsgate continues to maintain a 40% stake in Roadside Attractions, and the distributor remains one committed to theatrical with their releases seeing subsequent PVOD, DVD and streaming windows.
“A number of veteran team members at Roadside will be taking on additional responsibilities:...
Also departing is Head of Field Publicity Ronit Vanderlinden and David Hawkins in Distribution, we hear.
Roadside Attractions Co-Presidents and Co-Founders Howard Cohen and Eric d’Arbeloff tell Deadline, “As we emerge from Covid and assemble a new slate of films for the changing theatrical marketplace, we have decided to restructure Roadside’s marketing and distribution organization for the near-term future.”
Lionsgate continues to maintain a 40% stake in Roadside Attractions, and the distributor remains one committed to theatrical with their releases seeing subsequent PVOD, DVD and streaming windows.
“A number of veteran team members at Roadside will be taking on additional responsibilities:...
- 11/5/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
“The Jesus Music,” a film about the Christian music scene that earned more than half a million dollars over its opening weekend, is about as friendly and far removed from being an expose as a documentary can get, but that doesn’t mean the filmmakers want fans to think they’re getting anything but unvarnished truth. So the opening moments feature some of the movie’s primary participants — including Kirk Franklin, the three former members of DC Talk, Amy Grant and Michael W. Smith (the last two of whom are also among its executive producers) — sitting down for their interviews with tight faces and grim demeanors, as if about to be forced to spill their darkest secrets. But this introductory sequence doth protest too much: “The Jesus Music” is an altogether celebratory film made by the industry for its fans and, as with a lot of contemporary Christian music, throwing...
- 10/6/2021
- by Chris Willman
- Variety Film + TV
September was month of extremes at the box office, with both the highest grossing film of the year and the lowest grossing weekend since May. Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings is the first Marvel movie to open in September, and the gambit paid off, with the film crossing the gross of Black Widow to become the year’s number one movie, and it will soon overtake Bad Boys for Life to become the top grossing film since 2019. Other than Shang-Chi, though, the box office has been a total wasteland, with the next best opening weekend gross this month being Dear Evan Hansen’s meager $7.4 million. The dry spell is ending though, and after a rocky summer, the packed fall movie season is starting with a bang this weekend with Venom: Let There Be Carnage, The Many Saints of Newark, and The Addams Family 2, not to mention...
- 9/30/2021
- by Sam Mendelsohn <mail@boxofficemojo.com>
- Box Office Mojo
With stirring songs of faith, love, and hope, Jesus music rose from America’s 1960s counterculture movement to become a worldwide phenomenon. This fascinating documentary reveals the music’s uplifting and untold story — from its humble beginnings at the Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, California through its transformation into the multibillion-dollar industry of Christian Contemporary Music today.
Here’s the trailer:
Directed by the Erwin Brothers, The Jesus Music is the definitive love letter to Ccm fans that features intimate interviews with the genre’s biggest stars including Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Kirk Franklin, and Lauren Daigle. With stories of trials and triumphs, the universal power of music from these artists shine through from their messages of passion, sacrifice, and redemption that inspire millions of devoted listeners.
The Jesus Music features interviews with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Kirk Franklin,
Lauren Daigle, Glenn Kaiser, Greg Laurie, John Thompson,...
Here’s the trailer:
Directed by the Erwin Brothers, The Jesus Music is the definitive love letter to Ccm fans that features intimate interviews with the genre’s biggest stars including Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Kirk Franklin, and Lauren Daigle. With stories of trials and triumphs, the universal power of music from these artists shine through from their messages of passion, sacrifice, and redemption that inspire millions of devoted listeners.
The Jesus Music features interviews with Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, TobyMac, Kirk Franklin,
Lauren Daigle, Glenn Kaiser, Greg Laurie, John Thompson,...
- 9/24/2021
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
‘American Underdog’ Trailer: Zachary Levi’s Kurt Warner Needs to Prove Himself to Rams Coach (Video)
In the first trailer for "American Underdog," Kurt Warner (played by Zachary Levi) is called into the office of St. Louis Rams coach Mike Martz and is grilled about why he should get the chance to be the team's starting quarterback.
"Go ahead then, tell me," Martz, as played by Chance Kelly, says. "Why a team worth $800 million and with the most complex offense ever built should put you in the driver's seat? You're too old to be a rookie, too green to be a pro. So why in the world would I give you this shot?"
"American Underdog" is a biopic about Warner and how he went from being a grocery store clerk to becoming a Super Bowl champion and Mvp. The trailer even shows Levi as Warner stocking shelves and looking fondly at a Wheaties box with a picture of Dan Marino on it. When a colleague asks...
"Go ahead then, tell me," Martz, as played by Chance Kelly, says. "Why a team worth $800 million and with the most complex offense ever built should put you in the driver's seat? You're too old to be a rookie, too green to be a pro. So why in the world would I give you this shot?"
"American Underdog" is a biopic about Warner and how he went from being a grocery store clerk to becoming a Super Bowl champion and Mvp. The trailer even shows Levi as Warner stocking shelves and looking fondly at a Wheaties box with a picture of Dan Marino on it. When a colleague asks...
- 9/21/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Dennis Quaid has entered the tiger’s den and will join Peacock’s Joe Exotic (working title) as Rick Kirkham.
The limited series, based on the Wondery podcast, the Emmy-nominated actor will take on Joe’s reality show producer. He will appear opposite Tony Award winner John Cameron Mitchell who is set to star as Joe “Exotic” Schreibvogel, as previously announced. Other cast members announced to this point include Emmy winner Kate McKinnon, who plays Carole Baskin, Brian Van Holt, who plays John Reinke, Nat Wolff, who is set to portray yet another of Joe’s husbands, Travis Maldonado, and Sam Keely who will play John Finlay.
The series picks up with big cat enthusiast Carole Baskin, as she learns that fellow exotic animal lover Joe “Exotic” Schreibvogel is breeding and using his big cats for profit. She sets out to shut down his venture, inciting a quickly escalating rivalry.
The limited series, based on the Wondery podcast, the Emmy-nominated actor will take on Joe’s reality show producer. He will appear opposite Tony Award winner John Cameron Mitchell who is set to star as Joe “Exotic” Schreibvogel, as previously announced. Other cast members announced to this point include Emmy winner Kate McKinnon, who plays Carole Baskin, Brian Van Holt, who plays John Reinke, Nat Wolff, who is set to portray yet another of Joe’s husbands, Travis Maldonado, and Sam Keely who will play John Finlay.
The series picks up with big cat enthusiast Carole Baskin, as she learns that fellow exotic animal lover Joe “Exotic” Schreibvogel is breeding and using his big cats for profit. She sets out to shut down his venture, inciting a quickly escalating rivalry.
- 6/3/2021
- by Alexandra Del Rosario
- Deadline Film + TV
Season 20 of “The Voice” will come to a close beginning Monday, May 24 when the five remaining artists take the stage for their final performances. Team Blake Shelton‘s Cam Anthony, Team Nick Jonas‘ Rachel Mac, Team John Legend‘s Victor Solomon, and Team Kelly Clarkson‘s Kenzie Wheeler all advanced to the finale as the top vote-getters on their team through both rounds of the live playoffs. Jordan Matthew Young is the fifth finalist, saved from elimination in round one by his coach Blake and in round two by the Instant Save.
With two artists in the running, Blake has a good shot at adding an eighth trophy to his mantle. Looking to stop him from extending his all-time lead, Kelly could nab a fourth and John could add a second championship. Nick is a coach for only his second time and would win for the first time before taking...
With two artists in the running, Blake has a good shot at adding an eighth trophy to his mantle. Looking to stop him from extending his all-time lead, Kelly could nab a fourth and John could add a second championship. Nick is a coach for only his second time and would win for the first time before taking...
- 5/22/2021
- by John Benutty
- Gold Derby
After Tuesday’s episode of “The Voice,” a mere five artists are still in the running to win season 20: Cam Anthony, Rachel Mac, Victor Solomon, Kenzie Wheeler and Jordan Matthew Young. Take a look at the songs that the Top 5 have sung so far “The Voice” and then cast your vote in our poll as to your choice for champ. And be sure to sound off in the comments section with your thoughts on “The Voice” Top 5 of season 20.
To winnow down the Top 9, the public voted for their favorite performances on the May 17 show. The top-ranking artist from each of the four teams coached by Kelly Clarkson, Nick Jonas, John Legend and Blake Shelton moved on in the competition.
The remaining five artists — Dana Monique, Pia Renee, Corey Ward, Young and Gihanna Zoe — faced off in a sudden death sing-off. The winner was Jordan, who is coached by Blake.
To winnow down the Top 9, the public voted for their favorite performances on the May 17 show. The top-ranking artist from each of the four teams coached by Kelly Clarkson, Nick Jonas, John Legend and Blake Shelton moved on in the competition.
The remaining five artists — Dana Monique, Pia Renee, Corey Ward, Young and Gihanna Zoe — faced off in a sudden death sing-off. The winner was Jordan, who is coached by Blake.
- 5/19/2021
- by Paul Sheehan
- Gold Derby
The jitters were everywhere during Tuesday’s results show of “The Voice,” with the Top 9 artists anxiously waiting to find out who made it into the Season 20 finale. At the start of the show, the nine semi-finalists were: Corey Ward, Gihanna Zoe and Kenzie Wheeler of Team Kelly Clarkson, Pia Renee and Victor Solomon of Team John Legend, Dana Monique and Rachel Mac of Team Nick Jonas, and Cam Anthony and Jordan Matthew Young of Team Blake Shelton. Did your favorites advance to the next round, or were they sent home just before the end?
See‘The Voice’: Past Winners (Seasons 1 – 19)
Below, read our minute-by-minute “The Voice” Season 20 Top 9 results recap to find out who was eliminated on Tuesday, May 18 beginning at 8:00 p.m. Et/Pt. Then be sure to sound off in the comments section about your favorite artists on NBC’s long-running reality TV show, which...
See‘The Voice’: Past Winners (Seasons 1 – 19)
Below, read our minute-by-minute “The Voice” Season 20 Top 9 results recap to find out who was eliminated on Tuesday, May 18 beginning at 8:00 p.m. Et/Pt. Then be sure to sound off in the comments section about your favorite artists on NBC’s long-running reality TV show, which...
- 5/18/2021
- by Denton Davidson and Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
Sometimes it pays to go into an episode of The Voice with low expectations — yes, even if it’s the Semi-Finals. After last week’s Live Playoffs saw (heard?) numbers originally performed by Corinne Bailey Rae, Ariana Grande and the Backstreet Boys massacred by since-eliminated contestants, I — and what’s that, you say? You, too? — lowered the bar ahead of Monday’s sing-off. But it turned out that for the most part, we hadn’t needed to. Read on, and we’ll discuss why…
Victor Solomon (Team Legend), “I Can Only Imagine” — Grade: B+ | In rehearsal, Victor shared how excited...
Victor Solomon (Team Legend), “I Can Only Imagine” — Grade: B+ | In rehearsal, Victor shared how excited...
- 5/18/2021
- by Charlie Mason
- TVLine.com
After last week’s elimination bloodbath on “The Voice,” only the Top 9 artists still remain in the running to win Season 20. They are: Cam Anthony and Jordan Matthew Young of Team Blake Shelton, Corey Ward, Gihanna Zoe and Kenzie Wheeler of Team Kelly Clarkson, Pia Renee and Victor Solomon of Team John Legend, and Dana Monique and Rachel Mac of Team Nick Jonas. On Monday night, all nine took the stage again to perform for America’s votes. So who excelled and who cracked under the pressure?
See‘The Voice’: Past Winners (Seasons 1 – 19)
Below, read our minute-by-minute “The Voice” recap of Season 20, Episode 14 to find out what happened Monday, May 17 at 8:00 p.m. Et/Pt. Then be sure to sound off in the comments section about your favorite artists on NBC’s long-running reality TV show, which coach you’re rooting for and who you think will ultimately...
See‘The Voice’: Past Winners (Seasons 1 – 19)
Below, read our minute-by-minute “The Voice” recap of Season 20, Episode 14 to find out what happened Monday, May 17 at 8:00 p.m. Et/Pt. Then be sure to sound off in the comments section about your favorite artists on NBC’s long-running reality TV show, which coach you’re rooting for and who you think will ultimately...
- 5/17/2021
- by John Benutty and Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
When eulogizing screen performers, we often look at an Academy Award as either the launchpad or the apex of an actor’s life. In the case of Cloris Leachman, who died Wednesday at the age of 94, her Oscar was just one milestone in the career of an exceedingly versatile character actress.
Leachman was honored over the years both for her dramatic intensity and for a comedy skillset that embraced neurotic tension and fearless physicality with equal grace. She not only lived to be a nonagenarian, but she also remained busy and in demand to the very end, with recent credits as a voice in “The Croods: A New Age” and on such shows as “Mad About You” and “American Gods.”
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1926, Leachman studied at Northwestern (where her classmates included fellow comedy legends Paul Lynde and Charlotte Rae) before competing in the 1946 Miss America pageant. She...
Leachman was honored over the years both for her dramatic intensity and for a comedy skillset that embraced neurotic tension and fearless physicality with equal grace. She not only lived to be a nonagenarian, but she also remained busy and in demand to the very end, with recent credits as a voice in “The Croods: A New Age” and on such shows as “Mad About You” and “American Gods.”
Born in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1926, Leachman studied at Northwestern (where her classmates included fellow comedy legends Paul Lynde and Charlotte Rae) before competing in the 1946 Miss America pageant. She...
- 1/28/2021
- by Alonso Duralde
- The Wrap
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