New film Billy Graham: The Early Years will open in cinemas across the US on October 10.
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.
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.
The film paints a vivid portrait of Graham against the backdrop of his relationship with the evangelical star of the 1940s, 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 aims at an 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 hopes he has delivered an authentic and poignant Graham that can take the viewer deep into the heart of this iconic world-renowned yet humble figure.
Directed by veteran actor/director and Golden Globe nominee, Robby Benson (the voice of the Beast in Disney's Beauty and the Beast, Ode To Billy Joe, Ice Castles, The Greatest Story Ever Told), the Billy: The Early Years cast includes well-known Hollywood talent including Oscar-winner Martin Landau (Mission: Impossible, Ed Wood) and Lindsay Wagner (The Bionic Woman); as well as Stefanie Butler (CSI: NY), daughter of ex-Atlanta Brave Brett Butler; Kristoffer Polaha (North Shore) and platinum selling country sensation Josh Turner ("Long Black Train") as singer George Beverly Shea. John Carter Cash, son of John and June Carter Cash, serves as music producer.
The film will show in 50 screenings across the US before its official October opening. The soundtrack, meanwhile, incorporates Christian and country music artists, key events built around Graham's 90th birthday, a novel of the work published by Thomas Nelson Publishers and an upcoming home entertainment DVD release.
