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Top 7 faith-inspired films of 2023

‘Jesus Revolution’ 

Jonathan Roumie as evangelist Lonnie Frisbee in 'Jesus Revolution,' a Lionsgate film.
Jonathan Roumie as evangelist Lonnie Frisbee in "Jesus Revolution," a Lionsgate film. | Dan Anderson

“Jesus Revolution” kicked off the year as a surprise hit at the box office for an independent film.

Surpassing $50 million at the box office, the movie highlights the ministry of Revivalist Lonnie Frisbee, a flawed minister used greatly during the Jesus Movement of the 1970s. 

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“Jesus Revolution” was inspired by the true story of the spiritual awakening that swept Southern California in the late 1960s and early '70s.

The Kingdom Story film, in collaboration with Lionsgate, was directed by filmmakers Jon Erwin ("I Can Only Imagine") and Brent McCorkle and produced by Kevin Downes. 

In the movie, Pastor Greg Laurie and his wife, Cathe, best known for leading Harvest Christian Fellowship, represent a young, wayward generation. But after meeting Frisbee, a charismatic hippie street preacher, they find themselves at the church of Pastor Chuck Smith.

Despite Frisbee's significant influence and leadership during the Jesus Movement and later Vineyard Church in Yorba Linda, he struggled with his faith, drug use and homosexuality. He died from AIDS at the age of 43.

Upon its release, the film brought in an estimated $15.5 million at the box office, more than double the original estimate of $6 million.

"Jesus Revolution" received a 99% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes and an A+ CinemaScore.

Jeannie Ortega Law is a reporter for The Christian Post. Reach her at: [email protected] She's also the author of the book, What Is Happening to Me? How to Defeat Your Unseen Enemy Follow her on Twitter: @jlawcp Facebook: JeannieOMusic

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