Here’s the latest from the crossroads of faith, media & culture: 07/14/25

Here’s a peek at some of what’s on the faith-themed media ledger over the next year and a half or so.

“What If…” (in theaters Aug. 5th and 7th)
Fifteen years ago, before there was The Chosen, there was Dallas Jenkins’ first faith-based film called WHAT IF…. This special Fathom Event features cast a cast reunion and bonus conversation along with the well-remembered movie. Directed by Jenkins, the film stars Kevin Sorbo (Hercules), Kristy Swanson (the original Buffy the Vampire Slayer), John Ratzenberger (Cheers), and Debby Ryan (Insatiable). VIEW THE TRAILER HERE.
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Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith/Season 4 (begins streaming Aug. 7th on UP Faith& Family)
New episodes will be available every Thursday. Empowering self-love advocate, mental health coach and inspirational writer Faith Broussard Cade will host the new season. The inspirational series, produced by Four Eyes Media is based o, the bestselling devotional book Jesus Calling. The series shares stories of success, loss, heartbreak and redemption, told by people of faith from all walks of life.

“We are honored to partner with HarperCollins to continue bringing the transformative messages of Jesus Calling to audiences everywhere,” says UP Entertainment SVP for Content Strategy and Acquisition Hector Campos.

“With the debut of Jesus Calling: Stories of Faith Season Four, we are thrilled to continue our partnership with UP Faith & Family,” adds Michael Aulisio, Vice President and Publisher of the Jesus Calling brand. “For the past two decades the Jesus Calling devotional has touched millions of lives with messages of peace and hope. I’m excited for viewers to get to know season four host Faith Broussard Cade as she shares a new slate of faith stories from a diverse range of individuals.”
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Young Washington (in theaters next July 4th)
In a novel collaboration, Angel Studios and Wonder Project have announced they are partnering to release the upcoming film Young Washington next Independence Day.  The film will be directed by Jon Erwin (Jesus Revolution, I Can Only Imagine, House of David) and will begin filming later this summer. In an industry first, tickets are available for purchase one year in advance of the release date via Angel’s ticketing platform.

Young Washington chronicles the origins of America’s first president. After making a tremendous mistake that triggers the French and Indian War, an ambitious 22-year-old George Washington must face his failures and find the courage to become the leader that will forge a nation.

“Our shared commitment to inspirational, powerful storytelling made Young Washington an easy project to partner on with Wonder,” says Jordan Harmon, President of Angel.  “George Washington helped shape our nation and so many of the American values we hold dear. I can’t imagine a more meaningful way to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than by watching this adaptation of such a pivotal period in his young life.”

Erwin adds “I’ve dreamed of telling the powerful origin story of George Washington for nearly a decade. It’s a story of a true pioneer, which makes it the perfect project to partner on with the pioneers at Angel and their world-class distribution network…Young Washington isn’t just a film—it’s a celebration of the American spirit and the miracle of the forging of our nation.”

Tickets are on sale via Angel’s proprietary ticketing platform, which allows users to change the date and time of their ticket after purchase.

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The Senior (nationwide theatrical release set for September 19, 2025)
Angel has also announced that  the anticipated sports drama The Senior from Wayfarer Studios will debut in theaters next year. Directed by Rod Lurie (The Contender, Straw Dogs) and written by Robert Eisele (The Great Debaters), the is based on the true story of Mike Flynt (Michael Chiklis) who, 35 years after getting kicked off his college football team, decides to return to the gridiron for his senior year of eligibility and prove to his family, former teammates and himself that it’s never too late to tackle your dreams. Mary Stuart Masterson, Brandon Flynn, James Badge Dale, and Rob Corddry round out the cast.

Wayfarer production chief Andrew Calof says “At its core (The Senior is) about the unshakable power of faith, the bonds of family, and the relentless spirit that lives in all of us; no matter our age or circumstance. Rooted in the heart of America and centered around the world of football, it taps into something deeply human: the idea that perseverance, determination, and belief can carry us farther than we ever imagined. We’re incredibly proud to bring this film to life in partnership with Angel, whose commitment to creating impact for good mirrors our own mission; to tell stories that move people and make a difference.
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A Christmas List of Blessings (Great American Christmas 2025)
Great American Media, which operates the Great American Family cable network and Great American Pure Flix streaming service, has announced that production is underway on A Christmas List of Blessings. The Original Movie starring Shae Robins (Destined At Christmas, Destined At Christmas: Once More, Love In Aruba) and Christopher Russell (When Hope Calls, Peppermint And Postcards, A Vintage Christmas) will premiere as part of Great American Christmas 2025.

John W. Kennedy is a writer, producer and media development consultant specializing in television and movie projects that uphold positive timeless values, including trust in God.