Taking a cue from the box office success of “The Chronicles of Narnia,” Sony Pictures Releasing is unspooling its first theatrical faith-based film, “The Second Chance,” in a limited release (35 markets) on Feb. 17, with plans to expand to additional markets in following weeks.
Sony has previously released the “Left Behind” series, based on the apocalyptic Christian novels by Tim LeHay, on DVD.
“The Second Chance” was produced by Provident Films, a faith-based film production shingle, and will be released under Sony’s Triumph Films label.
Pic stars Christian chart-topper Michael W. Smith as the associate pastor of a mega-church in a wealthy, predominantly white, suburb. When his unorthodox style gets him in trouble with church leadership, his senior pastor (J. Don Ferguson) sends him downtown to serve at a black congregation in the projects.
Also starring is jeff obafemi carr as the street tough pastor of Second Chance Community Church.
Steve Taylor directed from a script by Taylor, Chip Arnold and Ben Pearson.
Taylor, J. Clarke Gallivan and Coke Sams produced. Exec producers are Michael Hagerty and Ben Howard.
Smith’s 18 contemporary Christian music albums have sold more than 13 million units. His latest album, “Healing Rain,” was released last year. He has won three Grammy Awards.
Taylor has parallel careers as a filmmaker, recording artist, songwriter and record producer. He directed Sixpence None the Richer’s musicvideo “Kiss Me” and produced that band’s self-titled album.