🎬 Welcome to the New Faith and Family Films Hub — Your Home for All Things Faith-Based Entertainment!
Big news from Faith and Family Films News and Notes! We’ve launched our brand-new media website — faithandfamilyfilms.net
We’ve also brought together all of our favorite content under one roof, including the Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie podcast and Sharing Movies Worthy Reviews. Now, you can explore trusted movie reviews, our Faith and Family Films Blog, behind-the-scenes interviews with filmmakers and actors, red carpet moments, and even thoughtful discussions about the themes that make faith films so impactful.
Our goal is simple: to create a space where those who love faith-driven storytelling can discover, discuss, and celebrate inspiring movies and TV shows.
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And don’t forget to browse our growing library of movie trailers. You might just uncover a few hidden gems that deserve a second look.
Welcome to the new Faith and Family Films News and Notes— where stories of hope, redemption, and purpose shine on screen.
David Almgren – Faith and Family Films News and Notes
Do you know someone who is down on their luck? Living with regrets? Wondering if it’s too late to make things right? Whether it’s a string of bad decisions, an unexpected crisis, or just life piling up. We all know people (or are people) who’ve felt like hope was out of reach. But what if the comeback is closer than we think? I’ve heard powerful stories from my friends at the LA Dream Center, accounts of people who ended up homeless and broken, often because of just a few wrong turns. But time and time again, those same people found a way back. How? Because someone stepped in. Someone believed in them, encouraged them, and introduced them to hope. It’s been said that just one person who believes in you can change the trajectory of your life and I believe that’s absolutely true. The idea of second chances isn’t just motivational, it’s deeply biblical. Think about Moses. David. Paul. Peter. These weren’t men who lived spotless lives. They lied. They failed. They even ran from God. But their stories didn’t end in failure. Through God’s mercy, their lives were redeemed and repurposed. God didn’t define them by their worst moments and He doesn’t define us that way either. These powerful stories of second chances aren’t limited to real life or the pages of Scripture—they’re also found in cinema. Over the years, faith-based filmmakers have brought hope to life in inspiring ways. Here are just a few standout films that highlight this redemptive theme that God gives us more than just a fresh start, He gives us a new story.
Breakthrough (2019) Based on the true story of John Smith, a teenager who survives a near-fatal drowning. His miraculous recovery becomes a testament to faith and the power of prayer and second chances. The VeggieTales movie Jonah (2002) playfully yet powerfully illustrates the theme of second chances, reminding viewers that God’s mercy is always available—even when we run the other way. A New True Story of Redemption This fall, another inspiring story hits the big screen nationwide called “The Senior”. No, it’s not about a retirement home. It’s the true story of a former college football star who, at age 59, gets a second chance—at life, at redemption, and with the game he loves. It’s a powerful reminder that no one is ever too far gone or too old for a comeback. Be a Messenger of Hope As leaders in our churches and communities, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to be purveyors of hope. You never know who’s quietly waiting for someone to believe in them. Maybe you are the person God wants to use to ignite a second chance in someone’s life. So keep your eyes open. Speak life. Be bold with your encouragement. And never underestimate the power of believing in someone who feels forgotten. Because sometimes, all it takes is one voice to turn a broken past into a redeemed future.
Hey everyone! Big news for VeggieTales fans—especially those who love our favorite suction cup-eared superhero, LarryBoy! I heard that Big Idea Content Group announced a brand-new LARRYBOY theatrical movie coming soon! And according to IMDBPro, the title of the new movie is LarryBoy Begins. That’s right, It looks like LarryBoy is finally making his big-screen debut!
“VeggieTales has always been the gold standard for faith-based kids’ animation,” says Art Ayris. “And there’s no better way to bring that magic to theaters than putting LarryBoy and all those classic VeggieTales characters front and center again.”
The VeggieTales franchise is the most successful faith-based children’s series ever, with over $1.7 billion in retail sales. And Big Idea has already released two theatrical films—Jonah: A VeggieTales Movie back in 2002 and The Pirates Who Don’t Do Anything in 2008—earning over $39 million at the box office combined. This new LarryBoy Begins film will continue that legacy with the faith-friendly storytelling, wacky humor, and silly songs fans have come to love.
The cast features familiar voices, including Mike Nawrocki as Larryboy, Kirk Cameron as the Barber, and many others voices returning to bring new and old characters to life.
“LarryBoy is a fan favorite and who doesn’t love a superhero with plungers on the side of his head?” says Leslie Ferrell, SVP at Big Idea. “Fans have been asking for more, and now they’re finally going to get it. We’re excited to bring a movie the whole family can enjoy.”
While the plot is still under wraps, Producer Dan Merrell is leading the charge with a team of talented writers, ready to give LarryBoy his first big-screen adventure.
“I’ve loved LarryBoy for decades,” says Merrell. “I can’t wait for longtime fans and new audiences alike to experience a fresh VeggieTales film that honors the classics while delivering some fun surprises.”
🎙️ I am looking forward to seeing LarryBoy to swing into theaters in LarryBoy Begins, plungers and all! So Veggietales fans, be on the lookout for updates and a theatrical release date.
Plungers Away! Dave Almgren – Faith and Family Films News and Notes
What Does It Mean to Be “Redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb”? If you’ve spent any time in church or around Christians, you’ve probably heard the phrase “redeemed by the blood of the Lamb.” But what does that actually mean? Why is it such a big deal in the Christian faith?
The BibleProject has created a powerful video that unpacks the biblical meaning of redemption—and it’s worth your time. In just a few minutes, you’ll see how this one word carries a story that stretches from the Old Testament to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.
Here’s what you’ll discover:
The role of the kinsman-redeemer in the ancient world and why it mattered.
Why God chose to redeem humanity and how that theme runs through the entire Bible.
Why Jesus is called “the Lamb of God” and how that title connects to the Passover story.
How you can experience true redemption—freedom from death and restoration to life.
Hopefully this video will reshape how you think about Jesus’ life and death—and deepen your understanding of what Christians mean when they talk about redemption. And how your life can be redeemed.
A big thank-you to the BibleProject team for helping bring this powerful truth to life so we can all understand “the Big Idea’s” in scripture.
Dave Almgren – Faith and Family Films – What’s The BIG Idea in the Bible?
🎬 A Conversation with Mike Flynt – The Man Behind The Senior
I recently had the opportunity to sit down with the legendary Mike Flynt, the real-life inspiration for the upcoming film The Senior, which opens in theaters nationwide on September 19, 2025.
In our conversation, Mike shares his incredible backstory—one of grit, second chances, and the love of the game. We also dive into his passion for football, and he reveals a fascinating behind-the-scenes story about the film’s director that you won’t want to miss.
This is more than just a football movie—it’s a story about redemption, resilience, and the power of never giving up.
🏈 Special Group Offer: If you’re planning to take a group, you can save 50% on tickets when you buy 10 or more. Just use the code 4Pastors at checkout.
I had such a great time joining Pastor Marc Estes (visitorreach.com) for a conversation with none other than Mike Flynt—the real-life inspiration behind the new movie The Senior ( in theaters starting September 19th). Mike shared some of his amazing backstory and talked about how his faith has shaped his journey. We also dug into the challenges fathers ( as well as sons and daughters) face today and what healthy fatherhood looks like and how the themes in the movie will connect with so many men across the country. Discount group tickets.Click the link below to access the interview.
Movies have a unique ability to capture our hearts and minds, weaving stories that resonate across generations and cultures. From iconic lines like “I’ll be back” from The Terminator to the theme song from Back to the Future, films infiltrate our culture, leaving lasting impressions. As a […]
In a heartwarming blend of faith, film, and fun, Two Pastors, Popcorn, and a Movie caught up with the creative force behind Where Hope Grows and its unforgettable star, David DeSanctis. What followed was a rich conversation full of laughter, insight, and soul—as they unpacked the movie’s powerful message, shared real-life reflections, and bonded over their mutual love for buttery popcorn and meaningful cinema. The movie hit the big screen a few years ago and is now currently streaming on Netflix.Check out our interview—you won’t want to miss it!
There’s nothing quite like gathering together to watch an animated film on the big screen. The excitement, the adventure, and the ability to be transported into another realm make movies a powerful experience that captivates children and those that are kids at heart. But beyond the entertainment, animated films have the potential to serve as an special tool for ministry, bringing biblical truths to life in an engaging and meaningful way.
As we step into 2025, there is an unprecedented wave of animated faith-based content hitting theaters and streaming platforms. This is a remarkable opportunity for family and children’s pastors to harness these films as a means of teaching, disciplining, and uniting their communities around biblical values.
An Exciting Line Up of Faith-based Animated Content.
Here are some a few releases to mark on your calendar:
• The Dead Sea Squirrels Series – An engaging series that introduces kids to biblical truths through the adventures of animated squirrels. Check out the new animated series from VeggieTales Co-Creator, Mike Nawrocki, streaming exclusively on Minno! Featuring performances and songs by Beth Moore, Ellie Holcomb, Mike Nawrocki, Steve Taylor, Newsboys, Matthew West, & more! Available Now on Mino streaming platform.
The King of Kings Movie – A father tells his son the greatest story ever told, and what begins as a bedtime tale becomes a life-changing journey. Through vivid imagination, the boy walks alongside Jesus, witnessing His miracles, facing His trials, and understanding His ultimate sacrifice. The King of Kings invites us to rediscover the enduring power of hope, love, and redemption through the eyes of a child. In theaters starting April 11th, 2025.
The Chosen: Animated Adventure Series –Creator of The Chosen Dallas Jenkins’ new independent studio 5&2 Studios is currently working on a New Children’s Animated Series called The Chosen Adventures. The Chosen Adventures follows nine-year-old Abby in the Galilean city of Capernaum, circa 30 CE. Inquisitive young Abby is bursting at the seams with questions and feels she doesn’t have the kinds of answers she’s looking for. When she and her best friend, Joshua, meet Jesus will all that change? Release Fall 2025
The Light of the World Movie – It’s AD 30 and everyone is expectantly awaiting the coming Messiah. While Jesus isn’t exactly what they imagined, there is something special about this man. Soon, John, James, Andrew, Peter, and their new friends begin to follow Jesus on an unexpected adventure. This beautiful, 2D-animated story of Jesus is told through the eyes of his beloved young friend, the Apostle John. From the beginning of Jesus’ ministry through his crucifixion and resurrection, LIGHT OF THE WORLD powerfully illustrates how Jesus of Nazareth changed the world forever and still changes lives today! In theaters September 5th, 2025.
Young David Movie – David is one of the most inspiring characters in human history. Warrior, poet, shepherd and king, David’s life is one of incredible color and energy. It’s the ultimate underdog story. It’s about much more than a shepherd boy who took on a giant. It’s a story that can inspire a generation to live more courageously, and love more generously. It has the power to change us. David is a major animated feature film that will reach a global audience. Animation is arguably the most powerful medium through which to reach every generation, culture and language. The world’s most beloved animated films are re-watched again and again and David may become one of the classics for generations to come. Release Fall 2025
Why Animated Faith Films Matter
Animated content has a unique way of capturing attention and making complex truths understandable, especially for children. With their colorful visuals, compelling storytelling, and relatable characters, these films provide an accessible way to teach scriptural lessons. In addition, they serve as a catalyst for family discussions, helping parents reinforce biblical principles at home.
How to Leverage This Content for Ministry
1. Host Family Movie Nights – Create a fun and inviting atmosphere where families can watch these films together, followed by a discussion or devotional time.
2. Incorporate Film-Based Curriculum – Use these films as the foundation for your Sunday school or midweek lessons, helping kids connect the stories on screen with biblical truth.
3. Encourage Family Engagement – Provide parents with discussion guides and activities that allow them to continue the conversation at home.
4. Community Outreach – Use these films as a way to invite families from your neighborhood into the church, providing an easy entry point for those who may not regularly attend.
The Time is Now
In all my years working in faith-based films, I have never seen such a rich offering of animated content that aligns with biblical values. This is an giant opportunity to use high-quality, faith- driven entertainment to disciple young people and support the spiritual growth of families in your church.
I challenge you, as a children’s pastor, to plan ahead and make the most of these incredible resources. Organize events, integrate these films into your teaching, and encourage families to use them as tools for faith development. Let’s seize this moment to inspire the next generation with biblical truths through the power of animated storytelling!
Faith and Family Flicks News and Notes 