Carman: A Story That Still Preaches

I went to many Carman concerts over the years—packed arenas, standing-room floors, people from every background coming together for one reason: to encounter something bigger than themselves. Carman didn’t just put on a show. He preached. He invited. He challenged. And every night, you could feel his heart to reach the lost.

That’s why the vision for a Carman movie matters so much.

Long before faith-based films became a movement, Carman was already telling cinematic stories from the stage. His concerts were theatrical. His songs were visual. His messages were intentional. He understood the power of story—and he believed God could use creativity, excellence, and bold faith to reach people who might never step inside a church.

As I’ve followed the development of this film—through Jack Vale’s commentary, CarmanMovie.com, coverage on CBN News, insights connected to Angel Studios, and the powerful Torch video presented to the Guild—one thing has been clear: this project isn’t driven by nostalgia. It’s driven by legacy.

Jack Vale has been intentional about honoring not just Carman’s success, but his obedience. This isn’t about platinum records or sold-out crowds. It’s about capturing the heart of a man who saw music as a mission field and the stage as a pulpit. Carman believed faith didn’t need to be watered down to be effective—and that excellence was part of the calling.

That belief shaped everything he did.

Carman lived with a deep sense of urgency. Every concert mattered. Every song had purpose. Every invitation was real. He wanted people to leave changed—and many did. Long before faith-based media found its footing in theaters, Carman was paving the way with bold storytelling and unapologetic faith.

From what’s been shared so far, the film doesn’t shy away from the full story. It honors the faith that carried Carman through cancer, through doubt, and through moments when quitting might have been easier. It reminds us that obedience often comes at a cost—but it also leaves an eternal impact.

This movie isn’t just about looking back. It’s about reminding a new generation what bold faith looks like.

For those of us who grew up with Carman’s music, this film will feel like a reunion. For those discovering him for the first time, it will be an introduction to a faith that stands tall, speaks clearly, and refuses to apologize for the truth of the Gospel.

Carman spent his life asking one simple question: How do we reach one more?

His voice may be gone, but his message still preaches. And this film feels like a continuation of that calling—one more story, one more audience, one more opportunity to point people to Jesus.

David Almgren – Two Pastors, Popcorn and a Movie Podcast

42 is a Must See Movie!!

ImageThis past week I had the chance to preview the new film called “42”. This is the story about Jackie Robinson and the Brooklyn Dodgers. This is a film that engages and inspires you well beyond the credits.  I say this because of the multiple layers in the movie and the fact that the movie is based upon a true story. The acting was superb and allowed you to become invested in the characters. The film is cut well, has high production value and the story keeps you engaged throughout the entire 128 minutes. This film is part love story, a lesson in over coming adversity, an inspirational story and a history lesson that leaves you thinking beyond the credits about the man, his mission and commitment to do things right.

I have to say I have followed baseball over the years and have been very familiar with Jackie Robinson and his life in baseball. Or at least I thought I did . . . But there are a few things that I learned from this film regarding the era, Jackie, his life and his convictions.

42 is a must see movie that will inspire you to do what is right. Challenge you to stand up for what you believe in and motivate you to stay the course.   Jackie Robinson is truly an American legend who changed baseball and also challenge the nation to make a change in the right direction regarding race.  I overheard some younger people in the audience that stated “who is Jackie Robinson?” I would imagine there are many from younger generations that are being introduced to Jackie and his story for the very first time. Mr Robinson is the kind of hero that we need today. Thank you Warner Brothers for telling the story and thank you Jackie for your example and staying the course!!

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About the movie:
“42” based on a true story of two men-Jackie Robinson, the baseball great who broke the Major League color barrier, and Branch Rickey, the iconic Brooklyn Dodger GM who brought Robinson to the team. Their brave stand against racism forever changed the world by changing the game of baseball. “Your enemy will be out in force, but you cannot meet him on his own low ground”……..”I want a player who’s got the guts not to fight back.”- Branch Rickey

Cast:
Harrison Ford (Branch Rickey), Chadwick Boseman (Jackie Robinson), Nicole Beharie (Rachel Robinson), Christopher Meloni (Leo Durocher), Lucas Black (Pee Wee Reese)

Release Date:
4/12/2013

Rating:
PG-13

Running Time:
128 minutes