Local movie-goers packed Maya Cinemas for the world premiere of the faith-based film “The Forge” and an appearance by director Alex Kendrick on Thursday night.

The film was made by the Kendrick Brothers (Alex and Stephen), the team behind popular Christian titles such as the sports drama “Facing The Giants,” the firefighting themed “Fireproof,” and the cop drama “Courageous.”

The brother duo shocked Hollywood when their movie “War Room” became No. 1 at the box office and made $74 million with a budget of $3 million.

Their movies have grossed more than $190 million worldwide. The Forge is their ninth film and is scheduled for general release on Friday, Aug. 23.

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JARON Ministries facilitated the premiere at Maya. Kendrick introduced the film, did a Q&A after the screening, and posed for photos with the moviegoers.

The Forge’s Promotional Synopsis, Director’s Comments

“Isaiah Wright has some growing up to do. A year out of high school with no plans for his future, Isaiah is challenged by his single mom and a successful businessman to start charting a better course for his life. Through the biblical discipleship from his new mentor, prayers of his mother and a prayer warrior named Miss Clara, Isaiah begins to discover God’s purpose for his life is so much more than he could hope for or imagine.” — (theforgemovie.com)

Said Kendrick: ” ‘The Forge’ is an evangelistic film. The gospel is shared. Principles of discipleship, which is following Jesus with your whole heart and not just believing in him only. We’re excited to hopefully draw people to a deeper walk with God.”

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Film Review

This a niche movie with its own market. The appeal of the Kendricks’ films is the message. The filmmakers are not setting out to make a cinematic masterpiece or a game changer in Tinseltown. The goal is spreading spirituality through the power of moviemaking.

It was compelling, well-acted, and uplifting. It had a couple of plot twists and emotional moments that made it a captivating watch. The audience responded with an ovation at the end. How many movies have you seen that inspired that kind of response?

“The Forge” featured a diverse cast, which was exciting to see. And, it had fine performances from Cameron Arnett (Joshua), and Priscilla Shirer (Cynthia/Elizabeth). Newcomer Aspen Kennedy (main character Isaiah) was a standout. Karen Abercombie (Miss Clara) provided good comedic relief.

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Critical Reception and Box Office Success

These films are not the darlings of film critics. However, audiences have come out in droves to see movies made by the Kendrick brothers. All have turned a profit.

“Traditionally critics don’t like our films. Our recipe and goal are different,” said Kendrick. “We appeal to our own audience and not theirs, and we get criticism for that. We’re fine with that.

“We want to target drawing people to the Lord. Making movies with a story that engages their heart, and mind is what’s important to us. We’re not after money and awards, we’re after ministry.”

Beyond a doubt, they’ve contributed to the rise of faith-based content. According to Movieguide, the total percentage of movies with “positive Christian/redemptive content” rose from 10% in 1991 to 59% in 2022.

Kendrick is proud that his faith has provided the biggest inspiration for his career, and the continued support from viewers.

“I’ve seen God’s fingerprints on the projects we’ve done. When people see our movies and if they can be more impressed with the Lord and less impressed with us, I’m fine with that.”