When it comes to faith-based movies, the nativity story is usually treated with sentimental seriousness. In 2017, the animated feature, The Star brought a lot more levity with a musical tale told from the perspective of animals. This year, Journey to Bethlehem gets a High School Musical treatment with an all-star cast destined to become a family favorite.
While you may not know Adam Anders by name, you are familiar with some of his work. He got his start in the music industry when he was still just a teen becoming a bass player Steven Curtis Chapman. From there, he began his professional writing career creating tunes for the likes of the Backstreet Boys, the Jonas Brothers and CeCe Winans. Over the years, Anders has written and produced music for movies and television including Dawson’s Creek, Glee, Hannah Montana, Evan Almighty and High School Musical 3.
Anders has won two Golden Globes, two People’s Choice Awards and has been nominated for four Grammys. This year, he makes his directional debut with Journey to Bethlehem, which has been described as a holiday pop musical. It stars Fiona Palomo, Milo Manheim, Antonio Banderas, MŌRIAH, Stephanie Gil, For King + Country’s Joel Smallbone, Lecrae, Rizwan Manji, Geno Segers and Omid Djalili.
“I have had a dream to create a Christmas musical for years and to see it come to life with a stunning cast has exceeded every expectation,” said director Adam Anders. “We could not be more excited for this film to be a classic for years to come.”
The movie will not only present the story about the birth of Jesus, but a love story between young Mary (Palomo) whose carrying an unimaginable responsibility and Joseph (Manheim) torn between love and honor.
“I hope this music goes down in history because I’m going to be listening to it for a long time, said Manheim. “It’s one of the best musicals I’ve ever been a part of.”
AFFIRM Films describes this new movie as a live-action Christmas musical adventure that is suitable for the entire family. It weaves classic Christmas melodies and new pop songs with humor and faith. It’s a gamble for sure, but one Sony’s AFFIRM Films is willing to take.
“This is AFFIRM Films’ first musical in 17 years and over 65 films, and the opportunity to work with one of the most successful music producers and songwriters for our first outing has resulted in a film that far exceeds our expectations. We’re looking forward to sharing this accessible and amazing musical journey with audiences around the world.” said EVP and Head of AFFIRM Films Rich Peluso.
Journey to Bethlehem is really Adam Anders’ baby. In addition to directing the film, Anders co-wrote the script with Peter Barsocchini (known for his work with the High School Musical franchise) and co-wrote the music with Nikki Anders and Peer Astrom (Glee, High School Musical, Descendants).
Journey to Bethlehem opens in theaters early in the holiday season – November 10, 2023.
Main image: Fiona Palomo and Milo Manheim (AFFIRM Films)
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