The success of faith-based films in recent years has led to a resurgence of Christian movies being made by Hollywood filmmakers.
2019 is already echoing 2018’s blockbuster year for Christian films. The Tim Tebow-backed production “Run the Race” brought in over $6 million domestically at the Box Office, and Devon Franklin’s latest film “Breakthrough” has made nearly $40 million.
Last year, the film “I Can Only Imagine” brought in $17.1 million domestically during its opening weekend, and over $83 million total, superseding expectations. And the movie “Paul, Apostle of Christ” was among the top 10 films at the box office during its opening weekend.
Here’s a list of four faith-based movies coming out now through this summer.
1. “Emanuel”
Release date: June 17 and 19
The documentary “Emanuel” tells the emotional accounts of survivors and family members of those who were murdered during a Bible study at the historic Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, South Carolina in 2015.
Fathom Events is bringing the documentary to theaters nationwide on June 17 and 19. The release date coincides with the anniversary of the church shooting.
During a court appearance, Dylann Roof, the 21-year-old accused shooter, received forgiveness from the family members of the nine victims he shot and killed.
“Emanuel compellingly weaves the history of race relations in Charleston, the significance and impact of Mother Emanuel Church, and the hope that somehow emerges in the aftermath. Featuring intimate interviews with survivors and family members, it is a poignant story of justice and faith, love and hate and examines the healing power of forgiveness,” the film’s synopsis reads.
Executive produced by actress Viola Davis and NBA star Stephen Curry, the movie was directed by Brian Ivie (“The Drop Box”).
The documentary was made in direct partnership with the city of Charleston and the families affected by the tragedy. Profits from the film will be shared with the survivors of the shooting and the victims’ families.
2. “The Other Side of Heaven 2: Fire of Faith”
Release date: June 28, 2019
“The Other Side of Heaven 2” continues the story of missionary John H. Groberg who returns to Tonga in the 1960s and has his faith shaken when his sixth child is born with an illness. Together with the local community he and his family pray for a miracle.
Part 1 of “The Other Side of Heaven” was released nearly two decades ago and helped launch the faith-based genre. It also launched the career of actress Anne Hathaway.
After its theatrical run, the movie was picked up by Disney and went on to sell over 4 million DVDs.
“The Other Side of Heaven 2: Fire of Faith” does not feature Hathaway but the original director and producer, Mitch Davis (“The Stray”), and lead actor, Christopher Gorham (“Ugly Betty”), reprise their respective roles. Gorham again stars as John Groberg and his wife is now played by New Zealand actress Natalie Medlock.
“John Groberg returns to Tonga for his second round of missionary adventures, this time bringing his wife and family. When their son is born critically ill, the Grobergs face the ultimate test of their faith, only to find themselves surrounded by the love and prayers of thousands of Tongans of all denominations. Barriers of interreligious strife (the Grobergs are Mormons) are broken down as an entire nation unites in hope of a miracle that will save the baby’s life, as well as that of a Tongan minister’s son who is in a coma in an adjacent hospital room,” the film’s synopsis reads.
For more information on “The Other Side of Heaven 2: Fire of Faith,” click here.
3. “Overcomer”
Release date: Aug. 23, 2019
The Kendrick Brothers’ new movie “Overcomer” wrapped up last summer and the faith-based drama featuring strong female lead characters, played by Priscilla Shirer and Shari Rigby, is scheduled to hits theaters throughout North America on Aug. 23. The film will share the value of knowing one’s identity.
Known for their inspiring Christian films (“Fireproof,” “Courageous,” and the No. 1 box office hit “War Room”), the Kendrick Brothers (Alex and Stephen Kendrick) aspire to have another blockbuster hit in their repertoire with “Overcomer.”
During a visit to the set, The Christian Post was told that the film was inspired by the book of Ephesians.
The sports drama stars Alex Kendrick in a leading role, along with several female co-stars including Rigby (“October Baby,” “Wildflower”), Shirer (“War Room,” “I Can Only Imagine”), and newcomer Aryn Wright-Thompson.
“Overcomer” is an AFFIRM Films, Sony Pictures Entertainment and Provident Films movie directed by Alex Kendrick and produced by Stephen Kendrick, with the screenplay written by both brothers.
For more information on “Overcomer,” click here.
4. “Let Go and Let God”
Release date: TBD
“Let Go and Let God” is set to release this year, although the date has yet to be determined. The film features NAACP Image Award-winner Clifton Powell and actress Delynn Terry. The subtitle of the film is “Let down, forgotten, stranded and depleted.”
“’Let Go and Let God’ follows two people from vastly different worlds whose lives are rocked after experiencing sudden deaths in their family. They question God as a result, but find the faith they’re looking for on an unexpected path,” the synopsis reads.
A sneak peek of the trailer shows Powell’s character in distress as he grieves in his pickup truck over a photo he’s holding.
The film will be released by Luv Life Entertainment. The award-winning Christian entertainment company focuses on creating inspiring, comedic films.
