EDMOND — TV star to appear in Christian-themed film
Five & Two Pictures recently announced the upcoming release of �The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry.�
New Hope Church of Christ of Edmond is sponsoring the movie, opening today at Quail Springs AMC. It will open in more than 200 theaters nationwide.
�The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry� is billed as an inspiring film for viewers from age 8-80. Best buddies Dustin (Jansen Panettiere), Albert (Frankie Ryan Manriquez) and Mark (Allen Isaacson) are 12-year-old boys looking forward to a summer of fun in 1970. When Dustin mows the lawn of 75-year-old Jonathan Sperry (Gavin MacLeod), a man he has seen at church, a unique friendship develops. What happens the rest of this summer is something Dustin and his friends will never forget.
Jansen Panettiere, the younger brother of Hayden Panettiere of �Heroes� fame, and Robert Guillaume also co-star.
Actor Kirk Cameron said, �The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry� moved me with its message about how one faithful man can make a difference in the lives of many. I recommend this inspiring movie for any family to watch together.�
Popular actor MacLeod, made famous from his roles in �The Mary Tyler Moore Show� and �The Love Boat,� is a devout Christian, and said it was a privilege to play this role.
�I have been acting for over 60 years,� MacLeod said. �Playing the role of Jonathan Sperry is the most meaningful project I have ever done.�
Director-producer Rich Christiano (who also made �Time Changer�) and his team are hoping churches and groups will support the film.
�Ninety-nine percent of the movies that come out in the theater have almost nothing to do with the Lord and Christian themes,� Christiano said. �I think this movie can encourage a lot of people during difficult times. They will laugh, be encouraged and touched.
�The church normally just plays defense. Hollywood will do something we don�t like, and we complain about it. We need to go on the offense. Let�s put forth films that can be positive for our society like �The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry.� If viewers will give this movie a chance, I think they are going to pleasantly surprised.�
To view a trailer and scenes from the movie, or to find a theater location, visit www.SperryMovie.com.
