Latest news with #Testament
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Angel Studios Builds Christian Film Empire Outside Hollywood System
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Angel Studios, best known for its breakout hit Sound of Freedom, is challenging Hollywood by focusing on a market often overlooked by major studios: faith-based audiences. Founded in 2013 by Neal Harmon and his brothers Jeffrey, Daniel, and Jordan, the independent Christian media company emerged from a desire to find uplifting content for their children. Jeffrey Harmon, the studio's co-founder and Chief Content Officer, told Newsweek that they're thriving because Hollywood has an "allergic reaction to faith content." Challenging the Hollywood Model Angel Studios had their first major breakthrough with the 2023 release of Sound of Freedom. The Jim Caviezel movie, based on the real-life efforts of Tim Ballard to combat child trafficking, became an unexpected smash success. Initially projected to gross $25 million, it went on to make over $250 million worldwide and become one of the most successful independent movies of all time. "That takes a movie that has a viral element to it. You can't just force market into that big of a movie," Harmon told Newsweek. Angel Studios co-founder Jeffrey Harmon speaks with Newsweek about their new series "Testament," the lack of religious films in the industry and whether Hollywood is dying. Angel Studios co-founder Jeffrey Harmon speaks with Newsweek about their new series "Testament," the lack of religious films in the industry and whether Hollywood is dying. Photo-illustration by Newsweek/Getty/Canva Since then, the studio has steadily released a string of more minor movies and TV shows. Animated movie The King of Kings, a loose adaptation of Charles Dickens' The Life of Our Lord, was released in April and made $67 million at the box office. Their most recent live action movie, The Last Rodeo, was released in theaters on May 23. Its not just that Angel Studios is a Christian media company that makes it different from the rest of Hollywood. The studio relies on an unconventional model where projects are greenlit by the Angel Guild, a community of over 1 million members who pay monthly dues and vote on which projects move forward. "Rather than a dozen people in Hollywood making all the decisions... we have 1.2 million people... and they are voting on all the movies," Harmon explained. Though Harmon sometimes disagrees with the guild's decisions, he says their collective judgment often outperforms his own. "When you have a million people having their voices heard, they know better than I do." Tapping Into a Growing Christian Audience In early 2024, Pew Research Center reported that 62 percent of American adults identified as Christian. Despite this, the number of Hollywood movies featuring Christian themes remains few and far between. Harmon said Angel Studios is uniquely positioned to serve this demographic. "Those people want to have more of their faith represented in movies and TV series, and we're able to provide that." Rather than waiting for traditional studios to cater to this audience, Harmon says, "We're saying, 'That's fine, we'll take them.' We'll provide authentic, faithful views... rather than a more negative, nihilistic view." Jeffrey Harmon attends the premiere of "Sound of Freedom" on June 28, 2023 in Vineyard, Utah. Jeffrey Harmon attends the premiere of "Sound of Freedom" on June 28, 2023 in Vineyard, Angel Studios Gen Z remains the most frequent moviegoing demographic, with older generations, especially Baby Boomers, attending less often. And the Pew research also showed one interesting trend; after years of decline, Gen Z is driving somewhat of a religious revival. Gen Z men in particular are actually more likely to attend weekly religious services than past generations. Angel Studios is keenly aware of this trend. "We are releasing eight movies this year, we're a top 10 U.S. distributor, and I think young people understand that where timeless art is created and where our timeless art is presented is in the theaters," Harmon said. Expanding Beyond the US Angel Studios recently surpassed one million guild members from 170 countries. As well as ramping up their production slate, the studio is looking to expand its footprint beyond the US. In 2024, the studio partnered with U.K.-based Kova Releasing for faith-centered films like Bonhoeffer and The King of Kings. Their latest series, Testament, a modern reimagining of the Book of Acts, was filmed in the U.K., and several other productions are being filmed by the studio in the U.K. and Ireland over the coming months. Harmon believes the show connects with audiences by reflecting how global cultures personalize religious art. "If you go to Africa, Jesus and the apostles are African; in India, they look Indian... people take Jesus into the context that they understand," he explained. Testament places Biblical themes in a dystopian setting. "This world... is different than what we've ever seen before for a Jesus film," Harmon said. With plans to double their guild membership and a potential public listing ahead, Angel Studios is poised to expand further. Testament will premiere June 8 on and the Angel TV & Mobile app.
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
The world is a better place for Pope Francis
As royalty and heads of state travel to Rome to bid farewell to Pope Francis, millions of people around the world join them in mourning a leader who transcended religious boundaries. The outpouring of affection and grief extends far beyond the world's Catholics. That affection is unsurprising. I was lucky enough to know Pope Francis personally, and his characteristic greeting of 'John, you must pray for me,' was immediately disarming. It exemplified his humility, simplicity and warmth, and even carried a suggestion of the wit he showed in private. It was through his encouragement that I became involved in work to combat modern slavery and human trafficking. But there was also a sterner, authoritative, 'Old Testament' side to Pope Francis. In these often turbulent and adversarial times he was steadfast in asserting his position as a moral leader, and he did so with a combination of humanity, frankness and clarity that achieved universal resonance. His death does not merely represent the end of a papal tenure. It is the culmination of a journey marked by courage, empathy and a resolute belief in the principles of the Good Shepherd. Pope Francis took us along a route that we would do well to continue to follow. Even amid pomp and ceremony, he remained a man of the people. As the first Latin-American pope he brought a distinctive and fresh perspective on our society, on the haves and have-nots. His background as a Jesuit instilled in him a deep sense of social justice and a commitment to serving people who were marginalised or oppressed. He challenged indifference to poverty with unwavering conviction, reminding the privileged that human dignity is universal and non-negotiable. He consistently emphasised a preferential option for the poor. His ministry transformed the Church's engagement with issues of social justice. These initiatives were part of his tireless work to ensure the Church remained relevant at times of rapid and challenging change. His encyclicals, such as Laudato si and Fratelli tutti, called for a renewed emphasis on environmental stewardship, social justice, and fraternity among all people, regardless of faith or background. In a world plagued by authoritarianism, disregard for the rule of law, and diminishing respect for human life, he stood as a beacon of moral clarity. Pope Francis's tenure was not without controversy. His progressive stance on issues such as economic inequality, climate change, and the inclusion of marginalised groups within the Church prompted criticism as well as admiration. Yet his passion for these causes remained unwavering. He moved the ball down the playing field – and he took the people with him. It helped that Pope Francis, with his ability to speak to the universal human experience, was such a remarkable bridge-builder among faiths. He recognised that the challenges facing humanity cannot be surmounted without a collective effort. In a world where religious differences are too often exploited to create division, he sought and mapped out common ground, fostering dialogues with Muslim, Jewish, Hindu and Buddhist leaders. By taking the lead in fostering a spirit of unity and mutual respect, he set a standard for future generations. He continued to embody the virtues of the Good Shepherd in his final days. Despite his frail health and physical limitations, he remained resolute in St Peter's Square on Easter Sunday. He understood that a crucial part of his role as a leader was to be present, to offer solace and guidance, especially in times of hardship. In his final act of courage, Pope Francis demonstrated that moral leadership is not about power or prestige but about service and sacrifice. As we reflect on the life and death of Pope Francis, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on the world. His legacy is rich, multifaceted and vibrant. He leaves behind a Church that is more inclusive, more compassionate, and more attuned to the needs and the spirit of the modern world. John Studzinski KSG is Vice Chairman and a Managing Director of PIMCO, and Founder and Chairman of the Genesis Foundation Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Telegraph
25-04-2025
- Politics
- Telegraph
The world is a better place for Pope Francis
As royalty and heads of state travel to Rome to bid farewell to Pope Francis, millions of people around the world join them in mourning a leader who transcended religious boundaries. The outpouring of affection and grief extends far beyond the world's Catholics. That affection is unsurprising. I was lucky enough to know Pope Francis personally, and his characteristic greeting of 'John, you must pray for me,' was immediately disarming. It exemplified his humility, simplicity and warmth, and even carried a suggestion of the wit he showed in private. It was through his encouragement that I became involved in work to combat modern slavery and human trafficking. But there was also a sterner, authoritative, 'Old Testament' side to Pope Francis. In these often turbulent and adversarial times he was steadfast in asserting his position as a moral leader, and he did so with a combination of humanity, frankness and clarity that achieved universal resonance. His death does not merely represent the end of a papal tenure. It is the culmination of a journey marked by courage, empathy and a resolute belief in the principles of the Good Shepherd. Pope Francis took us along a route that we would do well to continue to follow. Even amid pomp and ceremony, he remained a man of the people. As the first Latin-American pope he brought a distinctive and fresh perspective on our society, on the haves and have-nots. His background as a Jesuit instilled in him a deep sense of social justice and a commitment to serving people who were marginalised or oppressed. He challenged indifference to poverty with unwavering conviction, reminding the privileged that human dignity is universal and non-negotiable. He consistently emphasised a preferential option for the poor. His ministry transformed the Church's engagement with issues of social justice. These initiatives were part of his tireless work to ensure the Church remained relevant at times of rapid and challenging change. His encyclicals, such as Laudato si and Fratelli tutti, called for a renewed emphasis on environmental stewardship, social justice, and fraternity among all people, regardless of faith or background. In a world plagued by authoritarianism, disregard for the rule of law, and diminishing respect for human life, he stood as a beacon of moral clarity. Pope Francis's tenure was not without controversy. His progressive stance on issues such as economic inequality, climate change, and the inclusion of marginalised groups within the Church prompted criticism as well as admiration. Yet his passion for these causes remained unwavering. He moved the ball down the playing field – and he took the people with him. It helped that Pope Francis, with his ability to speak to the universal human experience, was such a remarkable bridge-builder among faiths. He recognised that the challenges facing humanity cannot be surmounted without a collective effort. In a world where religious differences are too often exploited to create division, he sought and mapped out common ground, fostering dialogues with Muslim, Jewish, Hindu and Buddhist leaders. By taking the lead in fostering a spirit of unity and mutual respect, he set a standard for future generations. He continued to embody the virtues of the Good Shepherd in his final days. Despite his frail health and physical limitations, he remained resolute in St Peter's Square on Easter Sunday. He understood that a crucial part of his role as a leader was to be present, to offer solace and guidance, especially in times of hardship. In his final act of courage, Pope Francis demonstrated that moral leadership is not about power or prestige but about service and sacrifice. As we reflect on the life and death of Pope Francis, we are reminded of the profound impact one individual can have on the world. His legacy is rich, multifaceted and vibrant. He leaves behind a Church that is more inclusive, more compassionate, and more attuned to the needs and the spirit of the modern world. John Studzinski KSG is Vice Chairman and a Managing Director of PIMCO, and Founder and Chairman of the Genesis Foundation
Indian Express
21-04-2025
- Health
- Indian Express
Pope Francis dies of stroke and heart failure, Vatican confirms
Pope Francis has died following complications from a cerebral stroke that led to a coma and ultimately irreversible heart failure, the Vatican announced on Monday. Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, head of the Vatican's health department, confirmed the pontiff's death in an official statement, noting that Pope Francis passed away at 7:35 a.m. local time. 'The Holy Father suffered a severe cerebral stroke that resulted in a coma,' Arcangeli said. 'Despite intensive care, it led to irreversible heart failure.' The Director of the Directorate of Health and Hygiene of the Vatican City State releases the cause of death for Pope Francis: a stroke, followed by a coma and irreversible cardiocirculatory collapse. — Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025 The 88-year-old pontiff had been battling multiple health conditions in recent months, including respiratory insufficiency, bilateral pneumonia, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. 'These pre-existing conditions significantly complicated his recovery,' Arcangeli added. In keeping with his lifelong emphasis on humility, Pope Francis requested a simple burial at the Basilica di Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. Pope Francis will be buried in the Basilica of St. Mary Major in the Pauline Chapel, which houses the ancient icon of Maria Salus Populi Romani, as he requested in his Spiritual Testament. The Holy See Press Office announced that Dr. Andrea Arcangeli, the Director of the… — Vatican News (@VaticanNews) April 21, 2025 Pope Francis will be laid to rest in the Basilica of St. Mary Major's Pauline Chapel, as per his wishes stated in his Spiritual Testament. The Pope's death was attributed to a stroke leading to a coma and cardiocirculatory collapse, with underlying health issues including pneumonia, hypertension, and diabetes. In a statement shared by the Vatican on X, the late pope had said, 'The tomb must be in the earth; simple, without particular decoration and with the only inscription Franciscus.'
Yahoo
04-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Metallica's …And Justice For All pushed bass players 'to the back' in the 1990s, claims thrash legend
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Metallica's …And Justice For All pushed bassists into the background during the 1990s, according to one famed thrash metal player. Steve Di Giorgio, who mans the low end in Bay Area favourites Testament and previously played in death metal originators Death, makes the claim in a new interview with D'Addario. He says that the 1988 album, which infamously features inaudible bass from then-newcomer Jason Newsted, contributed to the instrument being de-emphasised in the metal scene in the years that followed. 'And then the 90s hit, and this new standard [had] come out of bass players being pushed down, pushed to the back, mixed out of there,' Di Giorgio says (via Ultimate Guitar). 'It was happening before …And Justice For All, but that's the famous example of the bass being turned off during the recording.' He continues: 'A combination of that album and then the time period and this style, the bass was getting to the point where it was, like, embarrassing. That fuelled me to play even more obnoxious and give it a reason to be back in the mix.' The lack of bass on Justice has been a talking point among Metallica fans for decades now, with some speculating that it was a form of hazing against Newsted, who replaced the late Cliff Burton in late 1986. In a 2021 interview with Metal Hammer, Newsted admitted that he was 'fucking livid' when he first heard the album's mix, but said it was simply a carryover from the band's earliest days. 'They always made the records that way, from [1982 demo] No Life 'Til Leather, it was Lars [Ulrich] and James [Hetfield], guitar and drums,' he said. 'On the original cassette, in Lars' handwriting, in ink pen, on the label [it reads] 'Turn bass down on stereo.' On No Life 'Til Leather! It's just been that way their entire lives.' Di Giorgio first emerged with California progressive thrash metal band Sadus, before playing session bass on death/doom pioneers Autopsy's debut album Severed Survival (1989). He joined Death in the early 90s, playing on their Human (1991) and Individual Thought Patterns (1993) records. He joined Testament in 1998 before leaving in 2005, then rejoined in 2014. Testament will play two US festivals this spring – Sonic Temple in Columbus, Ohio on May 9 and Welcome To Rockville in Daytona, Florida on May 18 – then will tour Australia in June. See dates and details via their website.
