Beverly Lewis Book, The Shunning, to be Made into Movie

Press Release : Nov 23, 2010
Dana Archer - Mission Pictures International

Lewis is a Christian fiction novelist and children's author of over 70 books and foremost authority in the Amish community. Her novel, The Shunning, centers on the quiet Amish community of Hickory Hollow, Pennsylvania, where time has stood still.

(Los Angeles, Ca.)—"The Shunning is a powerful coming-of-age tale of a young woman discovering her identity and coming to peace with the faith of her parents. It's a universal story that will resonate in every household and in every family, even though it's set in the world of the Amish," said Michael Landon, Jr. who is "helming" the new film. "We are thrilled to be making this film with Hallmark, AFFIRM Films and Mission Pictures International."

The film is based on Beverly Lewis' novel of the same name and will star Danielle Panabaker and Sherry Stringfeld. Production began in North Carolina on November 8th.

Mission Pictures International, which was created to fill a unique position and need in the marketplace for family and faith based films, will handle international sales.

Mission Pictures International Cindy Bond and Chevonne O'Shaughnessy said: "The Shunning encompasses the essence of the Mission Pictures brand. We have found a synergy with our partners at Hallmark and AFFIRM Films, not to mention the talents and pedigree of Michael Landon Jr."

Barbara Fisher, Senior Vice President, Original Programs, Hallmark Channel, said, "Having been an ardent fan of Beverly Lewis' books for many years, I look forward to what I hope is an ongoing movie franchise of Ms. Lewis' tales of plain heritage. We have wanted to work with Sherry Stringfield for a very long time, and we equally welcome beautiful Danielle Panabaker as the heroine of our story. Together, the stars join some of the network's best producers in creating a film that should become an instant Hallmark Channel classic."

Lewis is a Christian fiction novelist and children's author of over 70 books and foremost authority in the Amish community. Her novel, The Shunning, centers on the quiet Amish community of Hickory Hollow, Pennsylvania, where time has stood still. While cherished traditions and heartfelt beliefs have flourished, a secret lies buried that could shatter the tranquility its inhabitants have grown to love.