Religious films have been gaining a foothold in mainstream cinema in recent years. Starting with Mel Gibson‘s THE PASSION OF THE CHRIST, we have seen several Biblical epics hit the screen while Christian independents have been making good profits with smaller, spiritual films that cater to a largely untapped audience. CAPTIVE represents the first major studio release with top tier talent to get a wide theatrical release.
Starring SELMA’s David Oyelowo and FANTASTIC FOUR star Kate Mara, CAPTIVE looks like a standard hostage thriller based on a true story. But, there is a clear religious bend to the tale that is clearly marketed in both the trailer and the poster art for the film.
CAPTIVE, based on a miraculous true story that drew the attention of the entire nation, is the dramatic, thrilling, and spiritual journey of Ashley Smith and Brian Nichols. After being taken hostage by Brian in her own apartment, Ashley turns to Rick Warren’s inspirational book, The Purpose Driven Life, for guidance. In reading from the book, Ashley not only finds purpose in her own life, but helps Brian find a more peaceful resolution to a harrowing situation.
Also starring The Wire’s Michael K. Williams, this movie could be a gauge for studios to see if it is worth investing more money into religious-themed films. This doesn’t look like it knocks you over the head with a Christian theme, but the book The Purpose-Driven Life should be a clear selling point for faith-based audiences. Overall, the movie looks kind of generic to me, but I am a fan of both Oyelowo and Mara so I may give this a shot.
CAPTIVE opens in theaters on September 18th.
