Sony Pictures has successfully acquired worldwide distribution rights for Rosalind Ross’ upcoming biographical drama, now titled Father Stu. Sony will officially release the Mark Wahlberg-directed film in theaters this Easter weekend, April 15, which was recently released by Ron Howard’s survival biopic Thirteen Lives after its passage on November 18.
Father StuThe new theatrical release from Warner Bros. Pictures will pit the film directly against a top contender in the form of Warner Bros.’ upcoming film. Pictures Fantastic Beasts: Dumbledore’s Secrets.
God needed a fighter, and He found one. @Mark Wahlberg stars in Father Stu – based on the true story of boxer-turned-priest Father Stuart Long. Exclusively in cinemas this Easter. #FatherStuMovie pic.twitter.com/bUoYe2qV4j
— Sony Pictures (@SonyPictures) January 25, 2022
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“Father Stu’s journey from troublemaker to clergyman has been an inspiration to many, including me,” Wahlberg said in a statement (via Deadline). “Rosey did an amazing job capturing the essence of who he was and how he affected the people he met. I hope with this film we keep his spirit alive and continue his good works.
Father Stu is loosely based on the true story of boxer-turned-priest Father Stuart Long, who turned to the sport of boxing after growing up as an angry young man. After his career failed to take off, Long suffered a horrific motorcycle accident and reportedly had an out-of-body experience that led him to rediscover his faith and enlist at Mount Angel Seminary in Oregon.
Joining Walhberg are Oscar winner Mel Gibson and Oscar nominee Jacki Weaver, as well as Teresa Ruiz, Cody Fern and Niko Nicotera.
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Father Stu is directed and written by Rosalind Ross in her feature debut. It is produced by Wahlberg and his manager Stephen Levinson, with Miky Lee and Colleen Camp serving as executive producers.
