Sony Pictures has dropped the Father Stu featurette for its forthcoming biographical drama, featuring a commentary by lead star and producer Mark Wahlberg. The film is scheduled to make its debut in theaters on Easter weekend, April 15.
In the video, Wahlberg opens up about his passion project by sharing the story of the first time he heard Father Stuart Long’s unbelievable life and his challenging journey towards finding God. The Oscar nominee also went on to express how he wants to honor the late priest’s legacy through this movie.
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Father Stu is loosely inspired by the true story of real-life boxer-turned-priest Father Stuart Long, who will be portrayed by Mark Wahlberg. Joining him are Oscar winner Mel Gibson and Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver along with Teresa Ruiz, Cody Fern, and Niko Nicotera.
“The film is an unflinchingly honest, funny and ultimately uplifting drama about a lost soul who finds his purpose in a most unexpected place,” reads the synopsis. “When an injury ends his amateur boxing career, Stuart Long moves to L.A. dreaming of stardom. While scraping by as a supermarket clerk, he meets Carmen, a Catholic Sunday school teacher who seems immune to his bad-boy charm. Determined to win her over, the longtime agnostic starts going to church to impress her. But surviving a terrible motorcycle accident leaves him wondering if he can use his second chance to help others find their way, leading to the surprising realization that he is meant to be a Catholic priest.
“Despite a devastating health crisis and the skepticism of Church officials and his estranged parents, Stu pursues his vocation with courage and compassion, inspiring not only those closest to him but countless others along the way.”
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Father Stu is directed and written by Rosalind Ross in her feature directorial debut. It is produced by Wahlberg, Stephen Levinson, and Jordon Foss, with Ross, Miky Lee, Patrick Peach, and Tony Grazia. and Colleen Camp serving as executive producers.
