variety will host its first Faith and Media Initiative (FAMI) Entertainment Breakfast of Spirituality and Faith in Los Angeles on February 13th, featuring Hilary Swank, Roma Downey, and Rainn Wilson. do.
Swank is the two-time Academy Award-winning actress from “Million Dollar Baby.”” and “Boys Don’t Cry”” We speak to Mark Malkin, senior culture and events writer. varietyabout his creative connections with faith-based entertainment, including the film “Ordinary Angels,” which is scheduled for theatrical release on February 23 from Lionsgate.
Downey, an Emmy-nominated actress and producer, New York Times bestselling author, and founder of Lightworkers Media, speaks with Cynthia Littleton. of variety Our co-editor-in-chief discusses her pioneering work in spiritual and faith-related television and film. Roman will executive produce and star in the upcoming Prime Video series “The Baxters.”
Wilson, an award-winning actor, screenwriter, producer, and author, speaks with senior entertainment writer Angelique Jackson. varietyabout his latest projects, including writing the recent New York Times bestseller “Soul Boom: Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution.”
This invitation-only event spotlights opportunities to bring religious and non-denominational perspectives to entertainment and media. This breakfast provides new perspectives on consumer attitudes, market opportunities, and breakthrough storytelling.
Additionally, research from the largest-ever global faith and entertainment study will be presented, showing that viewers overwhelmingly say they want to see accurate depictions of faith and religion in storytelling; Other research results will also be presented. A follow-up panel discussion was moderated by President Andrew Wallenstein. variety The Intelligence Platform features Dritan Nesho, CEO of HarrisX, and Brooke Zaugg, Executive Director of Faith & Media Initiative.
Other highlights include the panel discussion “Breakthroughs in Spiritual Storytelling” featuring Neil Harmon, CEO of Angel Studios;Devon Franklin, CEO of Franklin Entertainment and producer of “Flamin’ Hot”” and “a miracle from heaven””; Shakyna Bolden, Vice President of Digital Revenue and Experience Operations, Will Packer Productions; and Jennifer Quinton, head of content programming at Audible.
“There is an untapped market in entertainment media,” said FAMI Executive Director Brooke Zaug. “Across the world, consumers are demanding more accurate depictions of faith and spirituality. This is not about creating faith content, but rather adding faith fluency and diverse stories to television and film. It’s not only good business, it’s also a valuable opportunity to generate empathy and understanding. We’re inviting people from across the industry to share how to do this in an artistic, authentic and fun way. I’m excited to gather voices and have them heard.”
“variety We have always supported inclusive storytelling.” variety. “We love seeing movies and TV shows that inspire audiences and make them feel good.”
