Inspirations|February 14, 2014 10:59 EST
'Son of God' Movie Premiere: Rick Warren and Church Leaders All Over the Country Rent Out Theaters
Pastors and Christian leaders, including Mega-Church Pastor Rick Warren, are renting theaters all over America for the premiere of Mark Burnett and Roma Downey's upcoming film, "Son of God," on Feb. 27.
"Son of God," is a Cinematic film based off of the record breaking TV miniseries "The Bible," and it opens in theaters nationwide Feb. 28.
Religionnews.com reports that Cinemark Theaters is scheduling a significant amount of purchases on Feb. 27, said James Meredith, head of marketing & communications.
"The interest level for meetings, events, screenings and buyouts seems to be on par with that of major blockbuster, tentpole or franchise movies," said Meredith.
Many are using the film as an opportunity to evangelize. Warren is actually credited for the curriculum tied to the movie and published by LifeWay Christian Resources.
While evangelicals often endorsed faith based films shoring up support for movies like "The Passion of the Christ" and "Fireproof," Cardinal Donald Wuerl has commissioned discussion guides and videos for Catholic churches and schools, and Archbishop Thomas Wenski of Miami is planning to rent a theater for thousands of Catholics in Miami.
Numerous professional leaders are also donating tickets to churches and non-profit organizations, including Mart Green, heir to the Hobby Lobby family of companies.
The film is an adaptation of the Miniseries with added scenes and runs for about 2 hours long. Portuguese actor Diogo Morgado is playing the role of Jesus. Acting out his life, crucifixion and resurrection. Downey plays Mary, the mother of Jesus. Recording artist CeeLo Green who stars on "The Voice" is featured singing "Mary, Did You Know?" during the closing credits.
The last time audiences saw the story of Jesus was in the Cinema was The Passion of the Christ a decade ago, and that was about the last three days of his life. Not since 1965's The Greatest Story Ever Told has the story of his full life been shared, until now.
"Son of God" hits theaters everywhere Feb. 28, 2014. For more information visit the film's site
