The story of Billy Graham comes to the Big Screen in Billy: The Early Years

Michael Ireland : Jul 20, 2008
ASSIST News Service

"We love the subject matter and were bowled over at how the producers put together such a talented Tennessee cast and crew"

(Nashville, TN)?Coinciding with the 90th birthday of Dr. Billy Graham, a new film captures the heart of the beloved evangelist in Billy: The Early Years, coming to the big screen this fall.

This highly-anticipated film will be released theatrically across the country on October 10, 2008.

According to a media release, Billy: The Early Years captures the true essence of Graham's life's journey from an earnest young man at the crossroads of faith and doubt, to ultimately facing the moment of decision that launched one of history's most influential evangelists. (Photo: Billytheearlyyears.com)

The release states: "Starting out with the tranquility of the Graham dairy farm in North Carolina, Billy: The Early Years depicts the look and feel of the Depression-era as we accompany Graham to the tent revival where he finally heeds the altar call, and follows him through the struggle of doubt and resolution of the next decade of his life."

It adds: "The film paints a vivid portrait of Graham against the backdrop of his relationship with the evangelical star of the 1940's, Charles Templeton, a gifted young preacher whose faith would not withstand the onslaught of scientific skepticism. Templeton and Graham eventually part ways, and in the film, Templeton comes to personify the rising tide of disbelief into which Graham launched his crusades. The movie's power lies in its honest portrayal of Graham's struggle with the ideas represented in Templeton's eventual unbelief and shows how Graham's faith, so compellingly represented in the film, goes on to change the face of modern evangelism in the second half of the 20th Century."

Graham is portrayed in the film by rising young star, Armie Hammer (Veronica Mars, Flicka), who was announced as the upcoming Batman/Bruce Wayne in the new film, Justice League: Mortal. Hammer plays an incredibly authentic and poignant Graham, and takes the viewer deep into the heart of this iconic world-renowned yet humble figure.

Producers Larry Mortorff and Martin Shiel commented, "We are extremely excited to be surrounded with such an amazing team and have tremendous confidence in their ability to market this distinguished and touching new film." Producer Bill McKay said, "Barry Landis is a blend of an entertainment strategist as well as a great wrangler and distiller of the group's ideas."

Filmed in and around Nashville, Tennessee with a 90 percent Tennessee crew, Billy: The Early Years made perfect use of the new incentive plan from the state of Tennessee that grants up to a 32 percent cash rebate.

"This particular film is definitely in Tennessee's 'sweet spot'," said Perry Gibson, executive director of the Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commission.

He added: "We love the subject matter and were bowled over at how the producers put together such a talented Tennessee cast and crew, as well as garnered some the top names in the Nashville music industry. We'd welcome them back anytime, they were really terrific."