According to The Hollywood Reporter, Fox will air a two-hour live broadcast of religious musical The Passion to be hosted and narrated by Tyler Perry live from New Orleans on Palm Sunday, March 20, 2016, and feature "a cast of yet-to-be-announced stars performing a variety of popular music."
Set in modern times, The Passion follows the dramatic and inspirational story of Jesus of Nazareth as He presides over the Last Supper, and then is betrayed by Judas, put on trial by Pontius Pilate, convicted, crucified and resurrected. The story will unfold live at some of New Orleans' most iconic locations, culminating in a procession of hundreds carrying a 20-foot, illuminated cross from Champion Square outside the Superdome to the live stage at Woldenburg Park on the banks of the Mississippi River.
The Dutch version has been produced annually since 2011 and has built on its audience every year since.
“The Passion is one of the most exciting and compelling projects that I have ever been involved with,” executive producer Adam Anders said. “I cannot wait to bring the greatest-story-ever-told to life through music, in a way that has never been heard before. To be able to create new arrangements of some of the biggest songs of all time to create a live ‘film score’ is a creative dream for me.”
The Passion also fits in the trend of increased religious fare on TV following the staggering success of The Bible miniseries on History in 2013. However, similar projects the followed (CBS' The Dovekeepers and NBC's A.D. The Bible Continues) pulled in more modest ratings earlier this year.
Showing posts with label The Bible. Show all posts
Showing posts with label The Bible. Show all posts
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
'A.D. The Bible Continues' Suffers Ratings Low for Finale
"A.D. The Bible Continues," the follow-up series to the hit "The Bible" and based on events in the book of Acts, scored a 0.7 rating among the 18-49 demographic, which translates to approximately 3.56 million viewers.
This rating was well below the series premiere of ABC's "Battlebots," which ran in the same hour as "A.D." and had approximately 5.44 million viewers.
Also competing with "A.D." was Fox's live coverage of the U.S. Open. The professional golf event, which aired from 7 – 10:46 p.m., garnered nearly 6.7 million viewers.
Produced by husband and wife team Roma Downey and Mark Burnett, "A.D. The Bible Continues" premiered on Easter Sunday.
The 12 episodes comprising the first season begin with the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus and then culminated with the disciples getting their first Roman convert.
Sunday's 0.7 rating was a severe decline from the debut Easter Sunday episode of "A.D.", which gave NBC approximately 9.5 million viewers.
According to the site tvseriesfinale.com, the overall trend of the 12 episodes shows a gradual decline in viewership over the past couple months.
The site noted that the April episodes garnered ratings well above the 5.0 mark, while episodes in May sunk into the 4.0 range, and the June episodes were in the 3.0 range.
This rating was well below the series premiere of ABC's "Battlebots," which ran in the same hour as "A.D." and had approximately 5.44 million viewers.
Also competing with "A.D." was Fox's live coverage of the U.S. Open. The professional golf event, which aired from 7 – 10:46 p.m., garnered nearly 6.7 million viewers.
Produced by husband and wife team Roma Downey and Mark Burnett, "A.D. The Bible Continues" premiered on Easter Sunday.
The 12 episodes comprising the first season begin with the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus and then culminated with the disciples getting their first Roman convert.
Sunday's 0.7 rating was a severe decline from the debut Easter Sunday episode of "A.D.", which gave NBC approximately 9.5 million viewers.
According to the site tvseriesfinale.com, the overall trend of the 12 episodes shows a gradual decline in viewership over the past couple months.
The site noted that the April episodes garnered ratings well above the 5.0 mark, while episodes in May sunk into the 4.0 range, and the June episodes were in the 3.0 range.
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Roma Downey to Host new Series
Before a tornado ravaged her family's home, one Indiana woman heard the voice of God tell her to prepare her family for the upcoming devastation. This woman was one of many who decided to share their miraculous experiences on the new TLC show, produced by actress Roma Downey, called "Answered Prayers."
Downey, the "Touched by an Angel" actress, will host the new six episode TLC series that she'll also produce alongside her husband, Mike Burnett. The husband and wife duo recently teamed up to create the successful television miniseries "The Bible" and "AD."
Both Christians and non-believers who tune in will bear witness to real life footage, interviews and reactions to divine encounters such as one young boy surviving being buried under 11 feet of sand for hours, a pastor being stabbed 37 times and one family's car falling into an icy river bank with them in it.
"Each hour-long episode paints a vivid portrait of ordinary people who have faced extraordinary circumstances, and miraculously lived to tell the tale," TLC said in a statement shared with The Christian Post. "Each individual's unwavering faith and trust in the power of prayer has transformed potentially heartbreaking situations into stories of true inspiration."
The series will make its official debut at 10 p.m. ET Sunday, July 27.
Downey, the "Touched by an Angel" actress, will host the new six episode TLC series that she'll also produce alongside her husband, Mike Burnett. The husband and wife duo recently teamed up to create the successful television miniseries "The Bible" and "AD."
Both Christians and non-believers who tune in will bear witness to real life footage, interviews and reactions to divine encounters such as one young boy surviving being buried under 11 feet of sand for hours, a pastor being stabbed 37 times and one family's car falling into an icy river bank with them in it.
"Each hour-long episode paints a vivid portrait of ordinary people who have faced extraordinary circumstances, and miraculously lived to tell the tale," TLC said in a statement shared with The Christian Post. "Each individual's unwavering faith and trust in the power of prayer has transformed potentially heartbreaking situations into stories of true inspiration."
The series will make its official debut at 10 p.m. ET Sunday, July 27.
Thursday, May 8, 2014
Lifetime Pitches 'The Red Tent'
Another bible-themed longform project is heading to the small screen. Lifetime is going into production with The Red Tent, a two-night miniseries adaptation of the best-selling novel by Anita Diamant published in 1997. The White Queen star Rebecca Ferguson, Minnie Driver (About A Boy) and Homeland alumna Morena Baccarin lead the cast of the four-hour mini. Co-starring in the project, which begins production this month in Morocco, are Game Of Thrones‘ Iain Glen and Will Tudor as well as Debra Winger.
The Red Tent tells the story of Dinah (Ferguson), the daughter of Leah and Jacob, who is only briefly referenced in the Old Testament. The miniseries begins with Dinah’s happy childhood spent inside the red tent where only the women of her tribe are allowed to gather and share the traditions and turmoil of ancient womanhood.
“The Red Tent brings premium and popular elements to a unique and timeless story,” said Lifetime EVP Rob Sharenow. “It perfectly articulates our vision for Lifetime as the destination for epic movie events.” The Red Tent mini has been in development at Lifetime since 2011. Its green light coincides with a great interest in longform TV project with biblical themes following the the blockbuster success of The Bible miniseries on Lifetime sibling History and its feature offshoot Son Of God. A Bible sequel is in the works at NBC, National Geographic Channel has mini Killing Jesus coming up, WGN America has greenlighted 10-part event series Ten Commandments, and Fox just put in development Nazareth, an event series about Jesus’ formative years.
The Red Tent tells the story of Dinah (Ferguson), the daughter of Leah and Jacob, who is only briefly referenced in the Old Testament. The miniseries begins with Dinah’s happy childhood spent inside the red tent where only the women of her tribe are allowed to gather and share the traditions and turmoil of ancient womanhood.
“The Red Tent brings premium and popular elements to a unique and timeless story,” said Lifetime EVP Rob Sharenow. “It perfectly articulates our vision for Lifetime as the destination for epic movie events.” The Red Tent mini has been in development at Lifetime since 2011. Its green light coincides with a great interest in longform TV project with biblical themes following the the blockbuster success of The Bible miniseries on Lifetime sibling History and its feature offshoot Son Of God. A Bible sequel is in the works at NBC, National Geographic Channel has mini Killing Jesus coming up, WGN America has greenlighted 10-part event series Ten Commandments, and Fox just put in development Nazareth, an event series about Jesus’ formative years.
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
What Low-budget Hit 'God's Not Dead' Says About Christians and Hollywood
It may be “The Year of the Bible” in Hollywood, but American moviegoers are still startling the industry with their robust enthusiasm for faith-filled films targeting the tastes of the faithful.
This weekend, the small-budget “God’s Not Dead” took in more than $8.5 million Friday through Sunday – a surprising fifth-place in this weekend’s box office numbers.
Even more startling, say observers, is the fact that the movie, aimed toward Evangelical Christians, was shown in only 780 theaters – far fewer than those ahead of it, each of which were showing on more than 3,000 screens.
“While this huge opening may be a surprise to the industry, it is not so much to us,” said Mark Borde, co-president of the film’s distributor, said over the weekend. “The in-house tracking, the legitimate one million Facebook fans, the very high trending on Twitter and Fandango, among many other platforms, and the huge positive reaction from the hundreds of screenings over the many past months, gave us hope for a significant opening.”
While not a blockbuster of biblical proportions, the small film’s significant success this weekend comes at a time when Hollywood has been trying to capitalize yet again on the faith-based market, which also made a hit out of “Son of God” earlier this month. The film was condensed from the History Channel’s smash TV hit, “The Bible,” and has taken in nearly $56 million since its release Feb. 28.
But “God’s Not Dead” is a very different kind of film, many observers say. It has a deep resonance in the Evangelical subculture, which often feels mocked and demeaned by the nation’s media and entertainment elites.
“There's a negativity towards Christians in Hollywood,” said Kevin Sorbo, the actor who plays the atheistic philosophy professor. “And a negativity towards people who believe in God.”
“The silent majority is starting to get annoyed with what’s going on,” the Christian actor continued. “I think more people need to start speaking about it instead of just sitting there and taking it.... It’s happening; you’re getting attacked; you need to stand up for yourself and your beliefs.”
Indeed, the film leaps headlong into the culture wars, striking back against famous atheists, referencing the views of Stephen Hawking, Noam Chomsky, and others.
The film also has a number of subplots that reference real-life issues that chafe many Evangelicals. A journalist, described as a radical vegan, conducts ambush interviews with “Duck Dynasty” star Willie Robertson and his wife, who play themselves. It also follows the story of a young Muslim woman, who converts to Christianity and secretly listens to podcasts of the evangelist Franklin Graham, son of Billy Graham. Her enraged father violently kicks her out of the house. There is also a subplot about a local pastor struggling with his faith, the vegan journalist who later discovers she has cancer, and the philosophy professor’s mistress, who becomes a Christian.
“I’m so glad a film like ‘God’s Not Dead' is bringing to the public the very real culture clash going on in American public life, especially in education,” e-mails Mitch Land, professor and dean at the School of Communication & the Arts at Regent University, an Evangelical school in Virginia Beach, Va. “We have a right and obligation to express our faith without fear of discrimination or reprisal.”
But responses to the film are as stark as red and blue.
Scott Foundas, chief film critic at Variety, called it a “ham-fisted Christian campus melodrama,” saying its depiction of the college professor was “rather like the Jews in the wartime Nazi propaganda films.”
And so far, some 2,000 ratings on the site imbd.com reveal a divide as wide as it could possibly be. On Monday morning, about half of the arm-chair critics on the site rate the film a "Citizen Kane"-level 10 out of 10 stars (46.3 percent). A full third, however, give it a rock-bottom, "Ishtar"-level 1 star out of 10 (32.8 percent). There's no shades of gray for those who see this film.
Still, others see it in a far less conflict-laden context.
“The success of 'God’s Not Dead' shows at least three things,” says Paul Levinson, media critic and professor of communications and media studies at Fordham University in New York: “Big budgets are not necessary to make popular movies, there is a significant part of the population that cherishes faith-based movies, and students like narratives about arrogant professors who get their due.”
read full article
This weekend, the small-budget “God’s Not Dead” took in more than $8.5 million Friday through Sunday – a surprising fifth-place in this weekend’s box office numbers.
Even more startling, say observers, is the fact that the movie, aimed toward Evangelical Christians, was shown in only 780 theaters – far fewer than those ahead of it, each of which were showing on more than 3,000 screens.
“While this huge opening may be a surprise to the industry, it is not so much to us,” said Mark Borde, co-president of the film’s distributor, said over the weekend. “The in-house tracking, the legitimate one million Facebook fans, the very high trending on Twitter and Fandango, among many other platforms, and the huge positive reaction from the hundreds of screenings over the many past months, gave us hope for a significant opening.”
While not a blockbuster of biblical proportions, the small film’s significant success this weekend comes at a time when Hollywood has been trying to capitalize yet again on the faith-based market, which also made a hit out of “Son of God” earlier this month. The film was condensed from the History Channel’s smash TV hit, “The Bible,” and has taken in nearly $56 million since its release Feb. 28.
But “God’s Not Dead” is a very different kind of film, many observers say. It has a deep resonance in the Evangelical subculture, which often feels mocked and demeaned by the nation’s media and entertainment elites.
“There's a negativity towards Christians in Hollywood,” said Kevin Sorbo, the actor who plays the atheistic philosophy professor. “And a negativity towards people who believe in God.”
“The silent majority is starting to get annoyed with what’s going on,” the Christian actor continued. “I think more people need to start speaking about it instead of just sitting there and taking it.... It’s happening; you’re getting attacked; you need to stand up for yourself and your beliefs.”
Indeed, the film leaps headlong into the culture wars, striking back against famous atheists, referencing the views of Stephen Hawking, Noam Chomsky, and others.
The film also has a number of subplots that reference real-life issues that chafe many Evangelicals. A journalist, described as a radical vegan, conducts ambush interviews with “Duck Dynasty” star Willie Robertson and his wife, who play themselves. It also follows the story of a young Muslim woman, who converts to Christianity and secretly listens to podcasts of the evangelist Franklin Graham, son of Billy Graham. Her enraged father violently kicks her out of the house. There is also a subplot about a local pastor struggling with his faith, the vegan journalist who later discovers she has cancer, and the philosophy professor’s mistress, who becomes a Christian.
“I’m so glad a film like ‘God’s Not Dead' is bringing to the public the very real culture clash going on in American public life, especially in education,” e-mails Mitch Land, professor and dean at the School of Communication & the Arts at Regent University, an Evangelical school in Virginia Beach, Va. “We have a right and obligation to express our faith without fear of discrimination or reprisal.”
But responses to the film are as stark as red and blue.
Scott Foundas, chief film critic at Variety, called it a “ham-fisted Christian campus melodrama,” saying its depiction of the college professor was “rather like the Jews in the wartime Nazi propaganda films.”
And so far, some 2,000 ratings on the site imbd.com reveal a divide as wide as it could possibly be. On Monday morning, about half of the arm-chair critics on the site rate the film a "Citizen Kane"-level 10 out of 10 stars (46.3 percent). A full third, however, give it a rock-bottom, "Ishtar"-level 1 star out of 10 (32.8 percent). There's no shades of gray for those who see this film.
Still, others see it in a far less conflict-laden context.
“The success of 'God’s Not Dead' shows at least three things,” says Paul Levinson, media critic and professor of communications and media studies at Fordham University in New York: “Big budgets are not necessary to make popular movies, there is a significant part of the population that cherishes faith-based movies, and students like narratives about arrogant professors who get their due.”
read full article
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
Killing Jesus Becomes a Miniseries
After two very successful movies, National Geographic‘s Killing movie franchise is adding a miniseries: Killing Jesus. Law & Order veteran Walon Green has been tapped to write and executive produce the project, based on the book Killing Jesus: A History by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard.
O’Reilly’s Killing Jesus, which chronicles the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion, was published in September. Like the previous entries in Nat Geo’s Killing franchise, Killing Jesus will combine historical insights with dramatic storytelling. The mini is expected to begin production this summer for a 2015 premiere globally on National Geographic Channel in 171 countries and 45 languages. Last year’s Killing Kennedy became the most-watched program in Nat Geo’s history and garnered SAG, WGA, DGA and PGA Award nominations.
Religion-themed event programming is red-hot right now on the heels of the blockbuster success of History’s The Bible miniseries. A Bible sequel is in the works at NBC, and WGN America recently greenlighted a Ten Commandments event series. .
O’Reilly’s Killing Jesus, which chronicles the events leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion, was published in September. Like the previous entries in Nat Geo’s Killing franchise, Killing Jesus will combine historical insights with dramatic storytelling. The mini is expected to begin production this summer for a 2015 premiere globally on National Geographic Channel in 171 countries and 45 languages. Last year’s Killing Kennedy became the most-watched program in Nat Geo’s history and garnered SAG, WGA, DGA and PGA Award nominations.
Religion-themed event programming is red-hot right now on the heels of the blockbuster success of History’s The Bible miniseries. A Bible sequel is in the works at NBC, and WGN America recently greenlighted a Ten Commandments event series. .
Saturday, February 15, 2014
Tough Sailing for Noah with Christian Audiences?
Noah, starring Russell Crowe, has entered troubled waters. Director Darren Aronofsky, coming off a career-defining success in Black Swan ($330 million global, five Oscar nominations), has sometimes been at odds with Paramount,a studio working to protect a major investment that is intended to appeal to believers of every religion as well as those without any faith.
The trouble began when Paramount, nervous about how audiences would respond to Aronofsky's fantastical world and his deeply conflicted Noah, insisted on conducting test screenings over the director's vehement objections while the film was a work in progress.
Friction grew when a segment of the recruited Christian viewers, among whom the studio had hoped to find Noah's most enthusiastic fans, questioned the film's adherence to the Bible story and reacted negatively to the intensity and darkness of the lead character. Aronofsky's Noah gets drunk, for example, and considers taking drastic measures to eradicate mankind from the planet. Hoping to woo the faith-based crowd, Paramount made and tested as many as half-a-dozen of its own cuts of the movie. "I was upset -- of course," Aronofsky tells The Hollywood Reporter in his first extensive interview about the film's backstory. "No one's ever done that to me."
The director, who grew up Jewish, developed the story with fellow Jew, Ari Handel. The team lent their own imagination to the film, dreaming "up a world that included fallen angels with multiple arms and inventive, computer-rendered versions of animals."
Despite the initial screening reactions, Paramount Vice Chair Rob Moore, who is a "devout Christian," said that the studio anticipates "that the vast majority of the Christian community will embrace [Noah]."
"[The movie contains the] key themes of the Noah story in Genesis - of faith and hope and God's promise to mankind," said Moore.
Part of where Aronofsky's own interpretation came in, Moore says, is because the Genesis account has few details about who Noah was.
"From a storytelling perspective, the main points are that Noah is a man of faith who is picked by God, told to build an ark, builds the ark and survives," said Moore.
Moore defended the director's complex depiction of Noah.
"Most people do not remember or were never taught the fact that after Noah's off the ark, there is a moment in the story where he is drunk," he added.
The Hollywood executive also pointed out that viewers should be aware that Aronofsky's artistic style makes "Noah" a different film than a series, such as the one created by Mark Burnett and Roma Downey in "The Bible."
"They've been very effective in terms of communicating to and being embraced by a Christian audience," Moore told THR. "This movie has a lot more creativity to it. And therefore, if you want to put it on the spectrum, it probably is more accurate to say this movie is inspired by the story of Noah."
Aronofsky said that he has sought to balance the film's divergent audiences.
"[I wanted to create] this fantastical world a la Middle-earth that they wouldn't expect from their grandmother's Bible school," said Aronofsky, who is also known for such films as "The Wrestler," "Requiem for a Dream" and "The Fountain."
But Aronofsky said it was also important that he make a film for an audience "who take this very, very seriously as gospel."
Despite his religious upbringing, a 2006 interview suggests that Aronofsky no longer completely identifies with his faith.
"The Big Bang happened, and all this star matter turned into stars, and stars turned into planets, and planets turned into life. We're all just borrowing this matter and energy for a little bit, while we're here, until it goes back into everything else, and that connects us all," Aronofsky said, after being asked about his beliefs in God.
"The messed up thing is how distracted we are and disconnected from that connection, and the result of it is what we're doing to this planet and to ourselves…What are we doing to ourselves? It's a complete disconnect. To me, that's where the spirituality is. Whatever you want to call that connection -- some people would use that term God. That, to me, is what I think is holy," he added.
The trouble began when Paramount, nervous about how audiences would respond to Aronofsky's fantastical world and his deeply conflicted Noah, insisted on conducting test screenings over the director's vehement objections while the film was a work in progress.
Friction grew when a segment of the recruited Christian viewers, among whom the studio had hoped to find Noah's most enthusiastic fans, questioned the film's adherence to the Bible story and reacted negatively to the intensity and darkness of the lead character. Aronofsky's Noah gets drunk, for example, and considers taking drastic measures to eradicate mankind from the planet. Hoping to woo the faith-based crowd, Paramount made and tested as many as half-a-dozen of its own cuts of the movie. "I was upset -- of course," Aronofsky tells The Hollywood Reporter in his first extensive interview about the film's backstory. "No one's ever done that to me."
The director, who grew up Jewish, developed the story with fellow Jew, Ari Handel. The team lent their own imagination to the film, dreaming "up a world that included fallen angels with multiple arms and inventive, computer-rendered versions of animals."
Despite the initial screening reactions, Paramount Vice Chair Rob Moore, who is a "devout Christian," said that the studio anticipates "that the vast majority of the Christian community will embrace [Noah]."
"[The movie contains the] key themes of the Noah story in Genesis - of faith and hope and God's promise to mankind," said Moore.Part of where Aronofsky's own interpretation came in, Moore says, is because the Genesis account has few details about who Noah was.
"From a storytelling perspective, the main points are that Noah is a man of faith who is picked by God, told to build an ark, builds the ark and survives," said Moore.
Moore defended the director's complex depiction of Noah.
"Most people do not remember or were never taught the fact that after Noah's off the ark, there is a moment in the story where he is drunk," he added.
The Hollywood executive also pointed out that viewers should be aware that Aronofsky's artistic style makes "Noah" a different film than a series, such as the one created by Mark Burnett and Roma Downey in "The Bible."
"They've been very effective in terms of communicating to and being embraced by a Christian audience," Moore told THR. "This movie has a lot more creativity to it. And therefore, if you want to put it on the spectrum, it probably is more accurate to say this movie is inspired by the story of Noah."
Aronofsky said that he has sought to balance the film's divergent audiences.
"[I wanted to create] this fantastical world a la Middle-earth that they wouldn't expect from their grandmother's Bible school," said Aronofsky, who is also known for such films as "The Wrestler," "Requiem for a Dream" and "The Fountain."
But Aronofsky said it was also important that he make a film for an audience "who take this very, very seriously as gospel."
Despite his religious upbringing, a 2006 interview suggests that Aronofsky no longer completely identifies with his faith.
"The Big Bang happened, and all this star matter turned into stars, and stars turned into planets, and planets turned into life. We're all just borrowing this matter and energy for a little bit, while we're here, until it goes back into everything else, and that connects us all," Aronofsky said, after being asked about his beliefs in God.
"The messed up thing is how distracted we are and disconnected from that connection, and the result of it is what we're doing to this planet and to ourselves…What are we doing to ourselves? It's a complete disconnect. To me, that's where the spirituality is. Whatever you want to call that connection -- some people would use that term God. That, to me, is what I think is holy," he added.
Friday, February 7, 2014
Going Hollywood: 'Duck Dynasty' stars 'honored' to be part of Faith & Values Awards
The annual Movieguide Faith & Values Awards celebrates productions focusing on American patriotism, Christian beliefs and the traditional family. Now in its 22nd year, the gala ceremony – being held Friday evening at the Universal Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles – is welcoming “Duck Dynasty” stars Willie and Korie Robertson into the fold.
"We're excited to attend an awards show that honors and recognizes actors, directors, writers, producers and executives providing a positive message in film and programming," Korie Robertson told Fox News. "We are honored to present an award and to see Willie's work recognized as a nominee."
Gala founder Dr. Ted Baehr said the Movieguide Awards are equally as thrilled to have the Robertsons as guests and nominees.
"I think they were pretty beaten down by the media following Phil’s interview last year, and went through a period of extreme angst," Baehr said. "But they’re so excited to be coming and they’re bringing the family."
Willie has a Grace Prize TV nomination for his role in “Last Man Standing: Back to School,” while “Duck Dynasty: Till Duck Do Us Part” is also in the running for the Faith and Freedom TV awards and the Epiphany Prize TV award.
Furthermore, Willie and Korie will together present an award for the Best Family Movie. Nominees in that category include “Frozen,” “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2” and “Oz, The Great and Powerful,” while the “Best Mature Audience Films” is acknowledging “Captain Phillips,” “Gravity” and “Iron Man 3.” On the small screen, “Blue Bloods,” “Remember Sunday” and “Christmas in Conway” will face off against “Duck Dynasty” for the Faith & Freedom Award and the hit History Channel series “The Bible”” is up for both a TV Grace Award and the TV Epiphany Prize.
Other confirmed presenters include Mark Burnett, Roma Downey, Andy Garcia, James Denton, Ali Landry and Holly Robinson, while Ritchie Sambora, Billy Ray Cyrus and AJ Michalka from “Grace Unplugged” will perform.
“This past year has been the greatest year we’ve ever had for movies with faith and values; these are being lifted up everywhere," added Baehr. "But we really try to focus on more than celebrating the actors is the people behind-the-scenes – the writers, directors and produce who make these movies and shows happen. These are the people who are too often forgotten.”
The 22nd Annual Movieguide Faith &Values Awards airs March 1 and 2 on the Reelz Channel.
"We're excited to attend an awards show that honors and recognizes actors, directors, writers, producers and executives providing a positive message in film and programming," Korie Robertson told Fox News. "We are honored to present an award and to see Willie's work recognized as a nominee."
Gala founder Dr. Ted Baehr said the Movieguide Awards are equally as thrilled to have the Robertsons as guests and nominees.
"I think they were pretty beaten down by the media following Phil’s interview last year, and went through a period of extreme angst," Baehr said. "But they’re so excited to be coming and they’re bringing the family."
Willie has a Grace Prize TV nomination for his role in “Last Man Standing: Back to School,” while “Duck Dynasty: Till Duck Do Us Part” is also in the running for the Faith and Freedom TV awards and the Epiphany Prize TV award.
Furthermore, Willie and Korie will together present an award for the Best Family Movie. Nominees in that category include “Frozen,” “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2” and “Oz, The Great and Powerful,” while the “Best Mature Audience Films” is acknowledging “Captain Phillips,” “Gravity” and “Iron Man 3.” On the small screen, “Blue Bloods,” “Remember Sunday” and “Christmas in Conway” will face off against “Duck Dynasty” for the Faith & Freedom Award and the hit History Channel series “The Bible”” is up for both a TV Grace Award and the TV Epiphany Prize.
Other confirmed presenters include Mark Burnett, Roma Downey, Andy Garcia, James Denton, Ali Landry and Holly Robinson, while Ritchie Sambora, Billy Ray Cyrus and AJ Michalka from “Grace Unplugged” will perform.
“This past year has been the greatest year we’ve ever had for movies with faith and values; these are being lifted up everywhere," added Baehr. "But we really try to focus on more than celebrating the actors is the people behind-the-scenes – the writers, directors and produce who make these movies and shows happen. These are the people who are too often forgotten.”
The 22nd Annual Movieguide Faith &Values Awards airs March 1 and 2 on the Reelz Channel.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
'Noah' Previewed at Christian Conference by Director Darren Aronofsky
While attending the Echo Conference in Dallas, Texas last week, Director Darren Aronofsky previewed a sneak-peak video of his new biblical epic, "Noah," starring Russell Crowe and Emma Watson, which is set to be released in theaters in March 2014.
Before previewing the film, Aronofsky told the audience of Christian filmmakers and artists that he was first inspired to make a film about the biblical character of Noah in seventh grade, when he won an award for writing a poem about the scriptural hero, which he ultimately read in front of the United Nations.
Aronofsky said his experience with that poem "gave me the courage and spirit to be a writer. So Noah's very much been a patron saint in my life leading me toward my creative endeavors."
"I'm also excited that Hollywood has finally agreed to make the first biblical epic in almost 50 years," the director continued, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"It's been a long time since Bible movies were on the screen, and there's been a lot of advancements in technology and special effects, and maybe that's the reason why Noah's never been attempted on the big screen before, because of the size and scale of the deluge and all the different animals […] But now, finally, with Hollywood's help, we can actually do this and bring it to life," Aronofsky added.
The film will include Australian actor Russell Crowe playing the role of Noah, who in the Bible's Old Testament obeys God's command to construct an ark, and ultimately to save the remnants of life on earth.
Additionally, Emma Watson will star in the film as Ila, actor Logan Lerman will star as Ham, Jennifer Conelly will star as Naameh, and Anthony Hopkins will star as Methuselah.
Some critics are drawing a comparison between Aronofsky's "Noah," produced by Paramount Pictures, with the 2004 "The Passion of the Christ," a film directed by Mel Gibson. The film received several accolades and grossed $600 million during its theatrical release.
The success of a well-made biblical epic cannot be understated; Mark Burnett's "The Bible" miniseries broke cable television records when it premiered on The History Channel earlier this year, with its premiere episode drawing in 13.1 million viewers.
However, some, including film critic Brian Godawa, have remained skeptical of the upcoming "Noah" film, arguing that it seeks to serve more as an "enviro-disaster" film rather than an accurate retelling of biblical events. Godawa writes in a recent review that the film seeks to communicate an environmentalistic agenda that God is upset with man for his mistreatment of the earth.
Godawa argues that the film gives viewers "an anachronistic doomsday scenario of ancient global warming. How Neolithic man was able to cause such anthropogenic catastrophic climate change without the 'evil' carbon emissions of modern industrial revolution is not explained."
Aronofsky has previously directed such box office hits as "The Wrestler," "The Fighter," and "Black Swan." His most recent work "Noah" is currently being filmed in Iceland and is scheduled for release in theaters on March 28, 2014.
The Echo conference, which took place last week in Dallas, is described as a "church conference for artists, geeks, and storytellers" seeking to explore creativity within the church, according to the conference's website.
Before previewing the film, Aronofsky told the audience of Christian filmmakers and artists that he was first inspired to make a film about the biblical character of Noah in seventh grade, when he won an award for writing a poem about the scriptural hero, which he ultimately read in front of the United Nations.
Aronofsky said his experience with that poem "gave me the courage and spirit to be a writer. So Noah's very much been a patron saint in my life leading me toward my creative endeavors."
"I'm also excited that Hollywood has finally agreed to make the first biblical epic in almost 50 years," the director continued, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
"It's been a long time since Bible movies were on the screen, and there's been a lot of advancements in technology and special effects, and maybe that's the reason why Noah's never been attempted on the big screen before, because of the size and scale of the deluge and all the different animals […] But now, finally, with Hollywood's help, we can actually do this and bring it to life," Aronofsky added.
The film will include Australian actor Russell Crowe playing the role of Noah, who in the Bible's Old Testament obeys God's command to construct an ark, and ultimately to save the remnants of life on earth.
Additionally, Emma Watson will star in the film as Ila, actor Logan Lerman will star as Ham, Jennifer Conelly will star as Naameh, and Anthony Hopkins will star as Methuselah.
Some critics are drawing a comparison between Aronofsky's "Noah," produced by Paramount Pictures, with the 2004 "The Passion of the Christ," a film directed by Mel Gibson. The film received several accolades and grossed $600 million during its theatrical release.
The success of a well-made biblical epic cannot be understated; Mark Burnett's "The Bible" miniseries broke cable television records when it premiered on The History Channel earlier this year, with its premiere episode drawing in 13.1 million viewers.
However, some, including film critic Brian Godawa, have remained skeptical of the upcoming "Noah" film, arguing that it seeks to serve more as an "enviro-disaster" film rather than an accurate retelling of biblical events. Godawa writes in a recent review that the film seeks to communicate an environmentalistic agenda that God is upset with man for his mistreatment of the earth.
Godawa argues that the film gives viewers "an anachronistic doomsday scenario of ancient global warming. How Neolithic man was able to cause such anthropogenic catastrophic climate change without the 'evil' carbon emissions of modern industrial revolution is not explained."
Aronofsky has previously directed such box office hits as "The Wrestler," "The Fighter," and "Black Swan." His most recent work "Noah" is currently being filmed in Iceland and is scheduled for release in theaters on March 28, 2014.
The Echo conference, which took place last week in Dallas, is described as a "church conference for artists, geeks, and storytellers" seeking to explore creativity within the church, according to the conference's website.
Friday, June 28, 2013
The Bible Miniseries Sells 1 Million Units
The Bible reached a new milestone today with 1 million units sold across Blu-ray, DVD and DigitalHD. The epic 10-part miniseries from co-executive producers Mark Burnett and Roma Downey continues to dominate records everywhere with its unprecedented sales performance. It's the fastest selling TV title in the past 2 years and the #1 TV Miniseries of all time in home entertainment.
During its run, The Bible propelled History® to number one in all of television from 8-10 PM on Sunday nights with over 100 million viewers. The Bible series will air internationally later this year, followed by its international home entertainment release.
“We are thrilled that The Bible series continues to be enjoyed by millions across the country. The response to the series on television was overwhelming and clearly families are now wanting to own the DVD and enjoy it with family and friends,” said co-executive producers, husband and wife team Roma Downey and Mark Burnett.
“Millions of people embraced The Bible, not only making it the television event of the year but also bringing it to unprecedented success with the home entertainment release in the US,” said Mary Daily, president and chief marketing officer of Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. “We are excited about introducing this project to millions more as we launch internationally later this year.”
During its run, The Bible propelled History® to number one in all of television from 8-10 PM on Sunday nights with over 100 million viewers. The Bible series will air internationally later this year, followed by its international home entertainment release.
“We are thrilled that The Bible series continues to be enjoyed by millions across the country. The response to the series on television was overwhelming and clearly families are now wanting to own the DVD and enjoy it with family and friends,” said co-executive producers, husband and wife team Roma Downey and Mark Burnett.
“Millions of people embraced The Bible, not only making it the television event of the year but also bringing it to unprecedented success with the home entertainment release in the US,” said Mary Daily, president and chief marketing officer of Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. “We are excited about introducing this project to millions more as we launch internationally later this year.”
Tuesday, June 18, 2013
Could China’s growing influence in Hollywood affect Christian-themed movies?
Last year, China surpassed Japan as the second-largest box office in the world – with theater earnings up 36 percent from the previous year.
Experts now anticipate that in the next five to seven years, the world’s most populous country will jump the United States in gross box office. This means, whether Hollywood studios like it or not, they will likely have to tailor films to suit the Chinese market and appeal to the country’s Communist Party censorship regulations, if they want to have their movies shown there.
Experts tell Fox News this could be a particular problem for films with a strong faith-based theme.
Even though the Chinese government boasts on its website that "China is a country of great religious diversity and freedom of religious belief. It has over 100 million followers of various faiths” that doesn’t mean the Communist Party exactly embraces content promoting a Christian agenda.
“Christian-themed movies are generally shunned by the Chinese film authorities,” added Robert Cain, a veteran producer and longtime liaison between Hollywood and China. “I doubt any of the studios would bother submitting them.”
That would mean turning your back on the world’s second biggest box office, and potentially the biggest in coming years, which could be hard for many producers and studios to do.
“As much as American filmmakers want their freedom of expression, it comes down to money. The film industry is a business, and with China set to be the number one in the film market in the near future, Hollywood needs to look out for themselves,” explained entertainment litigation attorney, Dr. Dariush Adli. “Films will continue to be censored according to Chinese guidelines and even created according to these rules. All foreign films, dealing with anything from religion to gambling, have to be screened and pass the test of China’s State Administration of Radio, Film and Television (SARFT). This means that many studio productions are modified or refused completely. Until rules and regulations are changed on SARFT's end, Christian films will always have a hard time passing Chinese censorship.”
That means the decision whether to green light a faith-based movie will be even harder, given the success of these types of movies domestically. One only has to look at the recent ratings success of History Channel’s five-part miniseries “The Bible” which premiered with a whopping 13 million viewers this year and held steady at around 10 million watchers each week, to understand that the desire for Christian entertainment in the U.S. is strong.
There is also the domestic box office success of several religious-themed films in recent times – in 2004 “Passion of the Christ” brought in $370 million, 2006’s “The Nativity Story” made $37 million, 2008’s Kirk Cameron-starring “Fireproof” pocketed $33 million, 2009’s “The Blind Side” made $256 million, and 2011’s “Soul Surfer” made a domestic gross of almost $44 million.
But Christianity does appear to be growing in China. Ted Baehr, founder of the faith and traditional values entertainment site Movieguide.com, insists that the Christian genre does well around the world, and that there has been a push for the website to run a service in China.
“According to Niall Ferguson, the author of ‘Six Killer Apps,’ Christianity is growing faster in China than in any other country and there are now more bibles being printed in China than anywhere else in world,” Alderson added. “Thus an emerging Christian influence in Chinese film-making is possible, although it is likely to be subtle and indirect.”
Experts now anticipate that in the next five to seven years, the world’s most populous country will jump the United States in gross box office. This means, whether Hollywood studios like it or not, they will likely have to tailor films to suit the Chinese market and appeal to the country’s Communist Party censorship regulations, if they want to have their movies shown there.
Experts tell Fox News this could be a particular problem for films with a strong faith-based theme.
Even though the Chinese government boasts on its website that "China is a country of great religious diversity and freedom of religious belief. It has over 100 million followers of various faiths” that doesn’t mean the Communist Party exactly embraces content promoting a Christian agenda.
“Christian-themed movies are generally shunned by the Chinese film authorities,” added Robert Cain, a veteran producer and longtime liaison between Hollywood and China. “I doubt any of the studios would bother submitting them.”
That would mean turning your back on the world’s second biggest box office, and potentially the biggest in coming years, which could be hard for many producers and studios to do.
“As much as American filmmakers want their freedom of expression, it comes down to money. The film industry is a business, and with China set to be the number one in the film market in the near future, Hollywood needs to look out for themselves,” explained entertainment litigation attorney, Dr. Dariush Adli. “Films will continue to be censored according to Chinese guidelines and even created according to these rules. All foreign films, dealing with anything from religion to gambling, have to be screened and pass the test of China’s State Administration of Radio, Film and Television (SARFT). This means that many studio productions are modified or refused completely. Until rules and regulations are changed on SARFT's end, Christian films will always have a hard time passing Chinese censorship.”
That means the decision whether to green light a faith-based movie will be even harder, given the success of these types of movies domestically. One only has to look at the recent ratings success of History Channel’s five-part miniseries “The Bible” which premiered with a whopping 13 million viewers this year and held steady at around 10 million watchers each week, to understand that the desire for Christian entertainment in the U.S. is strong.
There is also the domestic box office success of several religious-themed films in recent times – in 2004 “Passion of the Christ” brought in $370 million, 2006’s “The Nativity Story” made $37 million, 2008’s Kirk Cameron-starring “Fireproof” pocketed $33 million, 2009’s “The Blind Side” made $256 million, and 2011’s “Soul Surfer” made a domestic gross of almost $44 million.
But Christianity does appear to be growing in China. Ted Baehr, founder of the faith and traditional values entertainment site Movieguide.com, insists that the Christian genre does well around the world, and that there has been a push for the website to run a service in China.
“According to Niall Ferguson, the author of ‘Six Killer Apps,’ Christianity is growing faster in China than in any other country and there are now more bibles being printed in China than anywhere else in world,” Alderson added. “Thus an emerging Christian influence in Chinese film-making is possible, although it is likely to be subtle and indirect.”
Mark Burnett, Roma Downey, Louie Giglio Attend 'The Voice' Finale
Burnett and Downey, who co-produced the mega-hit miniseries "The Bible" on The History Channel earlier this year, are well known to be connected to Christian leaders. Downey told The Christian Post on Tuesday, "Louie and Shelley are good friends of ours and fans of the show! It was a really fun night with such amazing performances…'The Voice' really is great entertainment for all the family."
Last night was the first part of the finale frenzy showcasing the best of the remaining three contestants: Danielle Bradbery, Michelle Chamuel and Christian duo, the Swon Brothers. All of them will hit the stage for their final performance and "The Voice" season four winner will be announced tonight.
The Swon brothers, who were taken under Blake Shelton's wings, hail from Muskogee, Okla., and were raised by Christian parents and are no strangers to performing as they did so at several churches while growing up. In the past, "The Voice" has had a number of Christian contestants aside from the Swon Brothers, including megachurch pastor Dr. Tony Evans's son, Anthony Evans. He was chosen to be on Christina Aguilera's team during the show's third season. But along with his shot at stardom came backlash from supporters confused about him attempting to go secular. However, with six albums under his belt as a Christian recording artist and worship leader, his big break had already come before becoming a contestant on the show.
Saturday, April 27, 2013
'Duck Dynasty' Finale Beats American Idol in Key Demo
Nearly 10 million people watched the Robertson family vacation in Hawaii for the Wednesday, April 24 finale.
In comparison, the most watched episode of TLC's “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” history was 3.1 million viewers (only a third of ‘Duck Dynasty’s’ finale amount).
However, History’s “The Bible” miniseries finale ended their successful run with 11.7 million viewers.
Prior to ‘Duck Dynasty,' 'Storage Wars' was the network’s golden child. Their most watched episode was 5.6 million.
‘Duck Dynasty’ is particularly really appealing to the 18-49 crowd. In this age bracket alone, they scored 5.6 million viewers in the finale, shattering all of A&E’s records. ‘American Idol’ which was airing this same night had 4.13 million viewers in that same age group. However, the Fox reality show was the most watched overall because of their lead of viewers aged 50 and older, and women aged 25-to-54.
Nonetheless, ‘Duck Dynasty’ won in every other key category. In the 18-34 age group, they beat ‘American Idol’ by an impressive 70 percent.
The A&E hit focuses in on the backwoods Robertson family that made millions from their top-notch duck calls. The Robertson family is definitely not the typical reality TV family. They are witty, genuine, and hilarious, but they keep the show completely clean in the process. It’s harmless fun, and has won the family stamp of approval. The Christian family even eats dinner together at the end of every episode. The gun-loving, duck-hunting men are known for their excessive facial hair, and their jabs at one another.
The show has been on hold for season 4 as salary negotiations are going on, but at this point in time, viewers would be shocked if A&E doesn’t come through with their requests.
In comparison, the most watched episode of TLC's “Here Comes Honey Boo Boo” history was 3.1 million viewers (only a third of ‘Duck Dynasty’s’ finale amount).
However, History’s “The Bible” miniseries finale ended their successful run with 11.7 million viewers.
Prior to ‘Duck Dynasty,' 'Storage Wars' was the network’s golden child. Their most watched episode was 5.6 million.
‘Duck Dynasty’ is particularly really appealing to the 18-49 crowd. In this age bracket alone, they scored 5.6 million viewers in the finale, shattering all of A&E’s records. ‘American Idol’ which was airing this same night had 4.13 million viewers in that same age group. However, the Fox reality show was the most watched overall because of their lead of viewers aged 50 and older, and women aged 25-to-54.
Nonetheless, ‘Duck Dynasty’ won in every other key category. In the 18-34 age group, they beat ‘American Idol’ by an impressive 70 percent.
The A&E hit focuses in on the backwoods Robertson family that made millions from their top-notch duck calls. The Robertson family is definitely not the typical reality TV family. They are witty, genuine, and hilarious, but they keep the show completely clean in the process. It’s harmless fun, and has won the family stamp of approval. The Christian family even eats dinner together at the end of every episode. The gun-loving, duck-hunting men are known for their excessive facial hair, and their jabs at one another.
The show has been on hold for season 4 as salary negotiations are going on, but at this point in time, viewers would be shocked if A&E doesn’t come through with their requests.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
USA Seizes Marketing ‘Moment’ With Christian Community
With “American Bible Challenge” breaking GSN’s ratings records, “The Bible” miniseries pulling over 10 million viewers a week on History, and Lifetime’s “Preachers’ Daughters” offering a cheekier take on religion, faith-friendly fare is having a big impact on general entertainment networks.
“Bible Challenge” exec producer Tom Forman has even quipped that he can’t believe it’s taken mainstream TV “this long” to realize that there is an untapped market with the Christian community, noting that almost three-quarters of the U.S. identifies itself as Christian.
Now, USA is trying its hand in the space with reality series “The Moment.”
“The Moment” is by no means an in-your-face, God-forward series. Alexandra Shapiro, the cabler’s exec veep of marketing and digital, says that the show possesses “universal themes that resonate with a Christian audience,” however, which allots USA a bevy of marketing opportunities to promote the show.
The Network took the program to hundreds of churches across America, offering advanced screenings and simulcast events with famed preacher Max Lucado and Warner, who is a celeb in his own right within the Christian community.
A similar marketing strategy was employed for Mark Burnett and Roma Downey’s “The Bible,” which was screened at mega churches as well.
Word of mouth is an increasingly valuable commodity in today’s TV landscape, as many viewers ditch water cooler talk by consuming programming on their own time frame with DVR or streaming sites.
What’s more, promoting a show can be difficult given the constant noise of programming on cable lineups.
The question that every exec asks is: how do you get people to talk about your show?
For the creatives behind faith-friendly shows like “The Moment,” the answer lies in the Christian community, where church leaders are constantly looking for a fresh way to discuss established Christian values.
Previously, shows like “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and films like “The Blind Side” were exemplary of faith-friendly fare, but not marketed directly to Christian auds the way “The Bible” and now “The Moment” explicitly are.
“The Moment” has seized upon this niche in the marketplace, even launching an initiative with ministries dubbed “Make the Moment” that calls thousands upon thousands of ministry members to action within their communities. “Make the Moment” features a website — MaketheMoment.org — that churches can register with, and pair those in need with church members with skill sets that can help improve the lives of others. Site features an online questionnaire that churches can email to their parishioners, along with sermon outlines and clips from “The Moment” to help pastors “build enthusiasm for the campaign to their congregations,” according to USA.
“The show (‘The Moment’) is all about second chances, which is something we as Christians certainly understand because we serve a God of second chances,” Warner says. “‘Make the Moment’ puts churches in a better position to make second chances a reality for those in need in their communities.”
Ken Foreman, senior pastor of Cathedral of Faith in San Jose, Calif., adds: “I’ve never found something as simple and impactful to help us meet the needs of our neighbors as ‘Make the Moment’. It’s made it so easy for us to tackle outreach efforts from two perspectives: identifying the gifts and talents of those in our congregation and then matching them to the needs all around us.”
The uplifting message not only promotes positive, actionable values within the churches, but also of course touts the show, spreading the word about the cable net’s frosh unscripted skein.
“The Moment” is also being promoted on shows and stations that Christian auds are already watching. Warner will appear on “Bible Challenge” tonight at 9 p.m. before the USA bow of “The Moment.” History also offered “The Moment” promo time during its marathon of “The Bible” that led up to the mini’s finale on March 31.
Not all uplifting fare fits the bill, though, when it comes to marketing to Christian audiences.
Shapiro notes: “People have made a business out of this, of course. But, at the end of the day, the product has to deliver, and a faith-based campaign is not for every property. You need to have the appropriate content and it needs to ring true and feel authentic in order for it to be a success.”
“Bible Challenge” exec producer Tom Forman has even quipped that he can’t believe it’s taken mainstream TV “this long” to realize that there is an untapped market with the Christian community, noting that almost three-quarters of the U.S. identifies itself as Christian.
Now, USA is trying its hand in the space with reality series “The Moment.”
“The Moment” is by no means an in-your-face, God-forward series. Alexandra Shapiro, the cabler’s exec veep of marketing and digital, says that the show possesses “universal themes that resonate with a Christian audience,” however, which allots USA a bevy of marketing opportunities to promote the show.
The Network took the program to hundreds of churches across America, offering advanced screenings and simulcast events with famed preacher Max Lucado and Warner, who is a celeb in his own right within the Christian community.
A similar marketing strategy was employed for Mark Burnett and Roma Downey’s “The Bible,” which was screened at mega churches as well.
Word of mouth is an increasingly valuable commodity in today’s TV landscape, as many viewers ditch water cooler talk by consuming programming on their own time frame with DVR or streaming sites.
What’s more, promoting a show can be difficult given the constant noise of programming on cable lineups.
The question that every exec asks is: how do you get people to talk about your show?
For the creatives behind faith-friendly shows like “The Moment,” the answer lies in the Christian community, where church leaders are constantly looking for a fresh way to discuss established Christian values.
Previously, shows like “Extreme Makeover: Home Edition” and films like “The Blind Side” were exemplary of faith-friendly fare, but not marketed directly to Christian auds the way “The Bible” and now “The Moment” explicitly are.
“The Moment” has seized upon this niche in the marketplace, even launching an initiative with ministries dubbed “Make the Moment” that calls thousands upon thousands of ministry members to action within their communities. “Make the Moment” features a website — MaketheMoment.org — that churches can register with, and pair those in need with church members with skill sets that can help improve the lives of others. Site features an online questionnaire that churches can email to their parishioners, along with sermon outlines and clips from “The Moment” to help pastors “build enthusiasm for the campaign to their congregations,” according to USA.
“The show (‘The Moment’) is all about second chances, which is something we as Christians certainly understand because we serve a God of second chances,” Warner says. “‘Make the Moment’ puts churches in a better position to make second chances a reality for those in need in their communities.”
Ken Foreman, senior pastor of Cathedral of Faith in San Jose, Calif., adds: “I’ve never found something as simple and impactful to help us meet the needs of our neighbors as ‘Make the Moment’. It’s made it so easy for us to tackle outreach efforts from two perspectives: identifying the gifts and talents of those in our congregation and then matching them to the needs all around us.”
The uplifting message not only promotes positive, actionable values within the churches, but also of course touts the show, spreading the word about the cable net’s frosh unscripted skein.
“The Moment” is also being promoted on shows and stations that Christian auds are already watching. Warner will appear on “Bible Challenge” tonight at 9 p.m. before the USA bow of “The Moment.” History also offered “The Moment” promo time during its marathon of “The Bible” that led up to the mini’s finale on March 31.
Not all uplifting fare fits the bill, though, when it comes to marketing to Christian audiences.
Shapiro notes: “People have made a business out of this, of course. But, at the end of the day, the product has to deliver, and a faith-based campaign is not for every property. You need to have the appropriate content and it needs to ring true and feel authentic in order for it to be a success.”
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Fox Passed on 'The Bible' Miniseries Over Scheduling, Contract Differences
Fox and Fox News Channel came close to acquiring the rights for the hit miniseries "The Bible," but at the end missed out on the show that went to the History Channel.
The LA Times reported that Rupert Murdoch, chairman and chief executive of News Corp., wanted to have "The Bible" air on Fox as soon as producer Mark Burnett mentioned the idea to him. However, the network was unable to find a day in which the show would have fit, with other big-name shows like "American Idol" and "The Following" occupying popular TV nights.
There was talk that the show could have actually played on Fox News, which the Times noted might have seemed a strange choice among the news and political opinion centered content, but its older and more conservative audience could have appreciated it.
The option was discussed, but at the end Burnett and his wife, fellow co-producer Roma Downey, wanted to hold onto international rights and have final cut over the miniseries, which proved to be a deal-breaker in the equation.
News Corp., however, did manage to get into the success of the show by securing the rights to distribute DVDs of "The Bible," which have also reached record-breaking numbers. In its first week of release at the beginning of April, "The Bible" sold 525,000 copies, making it the fastest-selling TV title released on DVD in the last five years and the top-selling DVD miniseries ever.
The History Channel beat out other tough competition for the rights to air the 10-episode series, however, as it was revealed that Discovery's TLC network also wanted the show, but the husband and wife co-producers again didn't budge on international rights.
The LA Times reported that Rupert Murdoch, chairman and chief executive of News Corp., wanted to have "The Bible" air on Fox as soon as producer Mark Burnett mentioned the idea to him. However, the network was unable to find a day in which the show would have fit, with other big-name shows like "American Idol" and "The Following" occupying popular TV nights.
There was talk that the show could have actually played on Fox News, which the Times noted might have seemed a strange choice among the news and political opinion centered content, but its older and more conservative audience could have appreciated it.
The option was discussed, but at the end Burnett and his wife, fellow co-producer Roma Downey, wanted to hold onto international rights and have final cut over the miniseries, which proved to be a deal-breaker in the equation.
News Corp., however, did manage to get into the success of the show by securing the rights to distribute DVDs of "The Bible," which have also reached record-breaking numbers. In its first week of release at the beginning of April, "The Bible" sold 525,000 copies, making it the fastest-selling TV title released on DVD in the last five years and the top-selling DVD miniseries ever.
The History Channel beat out other tough competition for the rights to air the 10-episode series, however, as it was revealed that Discovery's TLC network also wanted the show, but the husband and wife co-producers again didn't budge on international rights.
Monday, April 8, 2013
The Bible Shatters Home Entertainment Sales Records
The epic miniseries, The Bible, continues its unprecedented success
with its home entertainment launch and quickly has become the biggest
selling TV on DVD in the last 5 years and the biggest miniseries of all
time on Blu-ray, Digital HD and DVD in its first week of release. The Bible series sold
525,000 units in its first week. The Bible also ranked #1 across digital stores including iTunes, Amazon,
VUDU, Xbox, PlayStation, CinemaNow, and GooglePlay.
“We are humbled by the overwhelming response from audiences to The Bible miniseries,” said co-executive producers, husband and wife team Roma Downey and Mark Burnett. “First, the show was number one on HISTORY, now it is number one on Blu-ray and DVD and has been number one in every country in which it aired. We feel incredibly blessed that we were able to bring this amazing love story to life on the screen. It is our hope that folks everywhere will continue to be touched by the message of the Bible and cherish these stories at home with their families for years to come. This is just the beginning.”
During its run, The Bible propelled HISTORY to number one in all of television from 8-10PM on Sunday nights with 95 million cumulative viewers watching the miniseries.
After being named the official app of THE BIBLE series, YouVersion’s Bible App had its biggest month ever, reaching 88 million total installs, breaking into the top 15 of all free apps in the iTunes App Store, and seeing 3.4 billion minutes of Bible engagement in the app.
“We are humbled by the overwhelming response from audiences to The Bible miniseries,” said co-executive producers, husband and wife team Roma Downey and Mark Burnett. “First, the show was number one on HISTORY, now it is number one on Blu-ray and DVD and has been number one in every country in which it aired. We feel incredibly blessed that we were able to bring this amazing love story to life on the screen. It is our hope that folks everywhere will continue to be touched by the message of the Bible and cherish these stories at home with their families for years to come. This is just the beginning.”
During its run, The Bible propelled HISTORY to number one in all of television from 8-10PM on Sunday nights with 95 million cumulative viewers watching the miniseries.
After being named the official app of THE BIBLE series, YouVersion’s Bible App had its biggest month ever, reaching 88 million total installs, breaking into the top 15 of all free apps in the iTunes App Store, and seeing 3.4 billion minutes of Bible engagement in the app.
Monday, April 1, 2013
The Bible Conquers the Walking Dead with Finale
You know those nights when you have a choice of 250 channels, plus On Demand and there’s nothing you want to watch? Sunday night wasn’t one of those nights.
Cable television put two of its hottest series of 2013 up against each other and drew record ratings despite the intense competition. While the figures are still preliminary, the finales of AMC’s “The Walking Dead” and History’s “The Bible” combined drew an estimated audience about 25 million viewers.
History concluded its 10-part miniseries The Bible on
Sunday night, pulling an average 11.7 million viewers over the course of
the two-hour broadcast, up 14 percent week-over-week.
The Bible previously hit a ratings high with its March 3
debut, raking in 13.1 million viewers. Previous installments have
hovered above the 10 million mark.
Serving as a solid lead for scripted series foray Vikings, The Bible has only been eclipsed by last summer's Hatfields & McCoys in History's ratings highs.
Among total viewers, History noted that The Bible (12.33 million) barely edged AMC's The Walking Dead (12.29 million) in the 9 p.m. hour. It’s a strong performance for the religious miniseries that few expected to be a ratings competitor.
Last night’s conclusion of History’s popular project depicted the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. Since the show premiered last month, the miniseries has frequently managed to beat most broadcast shows on Sunday nights.
Cable television put two of its hottest series of 2013 up against each other and drew record ratings despite the intense competition. While the figures are still preliminary, the finales of AMC’s “The Walking Dead” and History’s “The Bible” combined drew an estimated audience about 25 million viewers.
Serving as a solid lead for scripted series foray Vikings, The Bible has only been eclipsed by last summer's Hatfields & McCoys in History's ratings highs.
Among total viewers, History noted that The Bible (12.33 million) barely edged AMC's The Walking Dead (12.29 million) in the 9 p.m. hour. It’s a strong performance for the religious miniseries that few expected to be a ratings competitor.
Last night’s conclusion of History’s popular project depicted the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus. Since the show premiered last month, the miniseries has frequently managed to beat most broadcast shows on Sunday nights.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
The Bible's Success is Inspiring Religious Programming
Will the success of The Bible foretell a slew of religious-themed movies and TV projects? Hollywood Reporter is reporting that already in the works is Jesus of Nazareth, a six-hour, $20 million miniseries from production outfit MPCA.
“We believe the audience continues to have a hunger for life- and faith-affirming films,” says Michael Landon Jr., who is writing and producing the new version of Jesus of Nazareth with Brian Bird for Brad Krevoy’s MPCA. “The monumental success of Mark Burnett and Roma Downey’s The Bible just underscores that.”
The Bible’s March 3 premiere was cable’s most-watched telecast of the year, pulling in 13.1 million viewers, with its next two episodes holding strong at 10.9 million.
Meanwhile, Showtime is developing The Vatican, Lifetime has a hit reality series called Preacher’s Daughters, GSN is airing a Bible-themed game show, and several networks (TLC, Discovery, Nat Geo) have sparked to the Amish.
Krevoy said he doesn’t have a U.S. network commitment yet but is confident that will happen. “I’m very comfortable we’re going to get plenty of takers,” he said.
The plan is to cast multiple name stars, and Krevoy hopes that includes the role of Jesus. How Christ is portrayed will have a huge impact on how the miniseries is received because recent projects that have taken liberties with the story have come under fire. Another movie called Jesus of Nazareth, being developed by Dutch director Paul Verhoeven and based on a controversial book he wrote, has been lambasted by Christians and now is stalled.
Marion Rosenberg, who manages Verhoeven, denies that controversy or financing is the problem. She says it is “on a back burner” because they haven’t found the right writer.
Neither project is related to the 1977 miniseries by Italian director Franco Zeffirelli, which drew high ratings when it aired on a U.S. network, but Landon and Bird say they were inspired by that version. “That was a great piece of filmmaking,” Bird says.
Landon says their version “will be traditional in the sense we’re going to stay true to the gospel, but it won’t be traditional in the sense that our version is actually going to be made for the skeptic, not the believer.”
Says Bird: “We’re not looking to cause controversy to anybody. What we hope to do will be orthodox and faithful to the gospel and pleasing to whoever sees it. The idea of helping skeptics see Christ in a different way than they’ve ever seen him before, that’s not going to upset the choir.”
Adds Landon: “We’re going to be faithful to our favorite book of all time.”
Krevoy says development on their project began even before The Bible, though it only got the green light after the History mini became a hit.
“Every generation should have the chance to experience this story,” says Krevoy. “It’s perfect for today with all the things happening in the world. It’s great entertainment and educational.”
Austin-based Landon says the idea for this new version came to him about seven months ago on a Sunday when he was attending church. “I called Brian and told him my take, and it resonated immediately."
Bird, who is based in Los Angeles, worked five seasons on the inspirational CBS show Touched by an Angel (which in turn was inspired by Highway to Heaven).
They then brought the idea to Krevoy, with whom they have been working on When Calls the Heart, a period drama for the Hallmark Channel about a teacher from high society who get her first classroom assignment on the rugged Western frontier. In addition to the telefilm, which airs Oct. 5, the cable channel recently ordered 10 additional episodes.
Bird said that, like Highway to Heaven and Touched by an Angel, he expects Jesus of Nazareth to be inspirational for the audience. “I don’t know how you do the story of the most inspirational human being who ever walked the earth and not have it be inspiring in terms of the people around him who had their lives changed,” says Bird.
“We believe the audience continues to have a hunger for life- and faith-affirming films,” says Michael Landon Jr., who is writing and producing the new version of Jesus of Nazareth with Brian Bird for Brad Krevoy’s MPCA. “The monumental success of Mark Burnett and Roma Downey’s The Bible just underscores that.”
The Bible’s March 3 premiere was cable’s most-watched telecast of the year, pulling in 13.1 million viewers, with its next two episodes holding strong at 10.9 million.
Meanwhile, Showtime is developing The Vatican, Lifetime has a hit reality series called Preacher’s Daughters, GSN is airing a Bible-themed game show, and several networks (TLC, Discovery, Nat Geo) have sparked to the Amish.
Krevoy said he doesn’t have a U.S. network commitment yet but is confident that will happen. “I’m very comfortable we’re going to get plenty of takers,” he said.
The plan is to cast multiple name stars, and Krevoy hopes that includes the role of Jesus. How Christ is portrayed will have a huge impact on how the miniseries is received because recent projects that have taken liberties with the story have come under fire. Another movie called Jesus of Nazareth, being developed by Dutch director Paul Verhoeven and based on a controversial book he wrote, has been lambasted by Christians and now is stalled.
Marion Rosenberg, who manages Verhoeven, denies that controversy or financing is the problem. She says it is “on a back burner” because they haven’t found the right writer.
Neither project is related to the 1977 miniseries by Italian director Franco Zeffirelli, which drew high ratings when it aired on a U.S. network, but Landon and Bird say they were inspired by that version. “That was a great piece of filmmaking,” Bird says.
Landon says their version “will be traditional in the sense we’re going to stay true to the gospel, but it won’t be traditional in the sense that our version is actually going to be made for the skeptic, not the believer.”
Says Bird: “We’re not looking to cause controversy to anybody. What we hope to do will be orthodox and faithful to the gospel and pleasing to whoever sees it. The idea of helping skeptics see Christ in a different way than they’ve ever seen him before, that’s not going to upset the choir.”
Adds Landon: “We’re going to be faithful to our favorite book of all time.”
Krevoy says development on their project began even before The Bible, though it only got the green light after the History mini became a hit.
“Every generation should have the chance to experience this story,” says Krevoy. “It’s perfect for today with all the things happening in the world. It’s great entertainment and educational.”
Austin-based Landon says the idea for this new version came to him about seven months ago on a Sunday when he was attending church. “I called Brian and told him my take, and it resonated immediately."
Bird, who is based in Los Angeles, worked five seasons on the inspirational CBS show Touched by an Angel (which in turn was inspired by Highway to Heaven).
They then brought the idea to Krevoy, with whom they have been working on When Calls the Heart, a period drama for the Hallmark Channel about a teacher from high society who get her first classroom assignment on the rugged Western frontier. In addition to the telefilm, which airs Oct. 5, the cable channel recently ordered 10 additional episodes.
Bird said that, like Highway to Heaven and Touched by an Angel, he expects Jesus of Nazareth to be inspirational for the audience. “I don’t know how you do the story of the most inspirational human being who ever walked the earth and not have it be inspiring in terms of the people around him who had their lives changed,” says Bird.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Survey: 69 Percent Learned Something New From 'The Bible' Miniseries
The History Channel's highly-successful miniseries "The Bible" has not only had record-breaking ratings, but it has also managed to teach the majority of viewers something they didn't already know about the Bible, according to a new Barna survey.
The survey, which was recently conducted by the Barna Group and commissioned by the American Bible Society, found that 69 percent of the viewers questioned claim that by watching the series, they discovered something new about the Bible that they didn't know before. The survey also found that of this 69 percent majority, less than 60 percent of those who answered described themselves as "active Christians," while more than 78 percent described themselves as "less-active Christians."
High school educated adults, non-whites, viewers ages 18-28, singles, and less-active Christians were among those more likely to answer that they had learned something new from "The Bible" miniseries.
The study, which questioned 615 adults throughout the U.S. via telephone interview, also asked questions relating to their awareness of "The Bible" miniseries, as well as viewership.
Nearly four out of five adults said they were aware of "The Bible" miniseries, while more than two out of five adults said they had watched an episode of "The Bible."
The survey, which was recently conducted by the Barna Group and commissioned by the American Bible Society, found that 69 percent of the viewers questioned claim that by watching the series, they discovered something new about the Bible that they didn't know before. The survey also found that of this 69 percent majority, less than 60 percent of those who answered described themselves as "active Christians," while more than 78 percent described themselves as "less-active Christians."
High school educated adults, non-whites, viewers ages 18-28, singles, and less-active Christians were among those more likely to answer that they had learned something new from "The Bible" miniseries.
The study, which questioned 615 adults throughout the U.S. via telephone interview, also asked questions relating to their awareness of "The Bible" miniseries, as well as viewership.
Nearly four out of five adults said they were aware of "The Bible" miniseries, while more than two out of five adults said they had watched an episode of "The Bible."
The Bible's Ratings Slip Slightly in Week 4
Both The Bible and Vikings were down a notch in their fourth airings, but overall the History series have demonstrated impressive ratings holds after their blockbuster premieres. Sunday’s installment of The Bible drew 10.3 million total viewers vs. 10.9 million last week and 10.8 million the week before. (The Bible‘s most recent demo tally was 3.9 million adults 25-54 and 3.4 million adults 18-49).
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)