As many Hollywood shows openly mock and bash Christianity, a new film is standing in stark contrast by attesting to the power of God – and Americans are already loving it.
A film revealing the story behind one of the most popular Christian songs, I Can Only Imagine, is gaining steam with millions long before its slated 2018 premiere on March 16. Directed by Jon and Andrew Erwin, the movie is based on the true story of Bart Millard, lead singer of the popular Christian band MercyMe.
Recently acquired by Lionsgate and Roadside Attractions, the faith-based film stars Dennis Quaid (The Day After Tomorrow, Vantage Point), Cloris Leachman (The Croods) and singer Trace Adkins as well as Priscilla Shirer, Madeline Carroll and Broadway’s J. Michael Finley.
On Facebook, the first teaser already boasts more than 31 million views since Aug. 23.
In the film, J. Michael Finley plays Millard.
“My dad was a monster,” he says as Millard in the teaser, “and I saw God transform him from a man that I hated into the man I wanted to become. And so I wrote this for my dad.”
In a behind-the-scenes trailer, the Erwin brothers call the movie, based on the “best-selling Christian song of all time,” a “complex father-son story.”
“It’s very uplifting,” actor Dennis Quaid also testifies in the trailer, “about how one can really have a complete change in one’s heart and how much you can move the earth with that.”
In an August statement, Lionsgate president of acquisitions and co-productions Jason Constantine announced, “We are very excited to bring this wonderful story to the big screen.”
Roadside Attractions co-presidents and co-founders Howard Cohen and Eric d'Arbeloff express similar sentiments.
“The Erwins bring world-class storytelling and production values to faith-based films,” they add. “It’s no surprise they have attracted such a phenomenal cast to their latest feature. We are thrilled to be bringing it to theatrical audiences nationwide.”
Previous films by the Erwin brothers include October Baby, Mom’s Night Out and Woodlawn.
In recent years, Christian films have become more popular in Hollywood and have attracted big name stars, beginning with movies like Miracles from Heaven starring Jennifer Garner.
