CULVER CITY, Calif., Aug. 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — “The Forge” has earned an A+ CinemaScore, marking the fifth Kendrick Brothers film to achieve this prestigious rating, as announced by AFFIRM Films. This accomplishment also represents a historic fourth A+ CinemaScore for Alex Kendrick as a director. “The Forge” had a strong opening weekend, ranking in the top five at the box office and grossing $6.635 million across more than 1,800 theaters.
Kendrick Brothers Celebrate Fifth A+ CinemaScore with “The Forge”
Expanding upon the cinematic universe first introduced in their 2015 box office success “War Room,” which reached #1 in its second weekend, “The Forge” is being praised as the Kendrick Brothers’ most polished work to date. “The thousands of positive reviews for ‘The Forge’ reflect the film’s wide appeal,” noted Rich Peluso, EVP/Head of AFFIRM Films. “Alex and Stephen Kendrick possess a unique talent for connecting with their audience.”
A Story of Growth and Purpose
“The Forge” follows Isaiah Wright, a 19-year-old whose life revolves around basketball and video games. A year after high school, Isaiah finds himself without a job, direction, or understanding of how to become a responsible adult. Tensions escalate with his single mother, Cynthia, who gives him an ultimatum: step up or move out. Torn between peer pressure and his mother’s expectations, Isaiah takes a job at Moore Fitness, unaware of the transformative impact its owner will have on his life. With the support of his mother, the prayers of a dedicated prayer warrior named Miss Clara, and unexpected guidance from his new mentor, Isaiah confronts his past, learns self-sacrifice, and begins to explore God’s greater purpose for his life.
A Talented Cast and Creative Team
“The Forge” features a strong cast, including well-known actors such as Priscilla Shirer (“War Room,” “I Can Only Imagine”), Cameron Arnett (“Overcomer,” “Stand Your Ground”), Karen Abercrombie (“War Room,” “Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3”), and introduces newcomer Aspen Kennedy. The film is directed by Alex Kendrick (“War Room”) and produced by Stephen Kendrick (“War Room”), with the screenplay written by both Alex and Stephen Kendrick.
The Kendrick Brothers’ previous films, including “Show Me the Father,” “Courageous,” “War Room,” and “Overcomer,” also received A+ CinemaScores.
Stay connected with “The Forge” on social media at @ForgeMovie or visit theforgemovie.com.
About AFFIRM Films
Founded in 2007, AFFIRM Films is a leader in the faith-based and inspirational film industry, boasting a global box office of over $660 million. Their portfolio includes popular titles such as “Soul Surfer,” “War Room,” “Risen,” “Fireproof,” “The Star,” “Courageous,” “Paul: Apostle of Christ,” “Overcomer,” “When the Game Stands Tall,” “Show Me the Father,” “Heaven Is for Real,” “Miracles from Heaven,” “A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood” (in partnership with TriStar Pictures), and “Big George Foreman” (in partnership with Columbia Pictures). In December 2023, AFFIRM Films released the unique and epic Christmas musical “Journey to Bethlehem.” Their next release is the much-anticipated Kendrick Brothers’ film, “The Forge,” now playing exclusively in theaters. AFFIRM Films produces, acquires, and markets content that inspires, uplifts, and entertains, focusing on family and faith across its three divisions: AFFIRM Films, AFFIRM Television, and AFFIRM Originals. AFFIRM Films is a division of Sony Pictures Entertainment, a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. To stay updated on AFFIRM Films, visit affirmfilmsupdates.com and follow them on social media at @AFFIRMFilms.
About Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE)
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Entertainment Inc., which itself is a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE’s global operations cover motion picture production, acquisition, and distribution; television production, acquisition, and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services, and technologies. SPE’s Motion Picture Group includes Columbia Pictures, Screen Gems, TriStar Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, Stage 6 Films, AFFIRM Films, and Sony Pictures Classics. For more information, visit sonypictures.com.
About Provident Films
Provident Films creates entertainment that inspires faith and appeals to family audiences. Since its inception in 2006, the company has produced successful films such as the Kendrick Brothers’ “Overcomer,” “War Room,” “Courageous,” “Fireproof,” “Facing the Giants,” and the Erwin Brothers’ “Woodlawn” and “Moms’ Night Out.” Recently, Provident Films released “Family Camp” with Roadside Attractions and “Blue Miracle” in partnership with Netflix. Provident Films is part of Provident Entertainment, based in Nashville, and is a division of Sony Music Entertainment. For more information, visit ProvidentFilms.org.
About Kendrick Brothers Productions
Kendrick Brothers Productions is the filmmaking company of brothers Alex, Stephen, and Shannon Kendrick, dedicated to honoring God and sharing the message of Jesus Christ through movies, books, curriculum, and speaking engagements. By combining engaging storytelling with doctrinal integrity, the Kendricks aim to inspire and encourage audiences, positively impacting their lives and strengthening their faith, families, and personal relationships.
SOURCE: AFFIRM Films
