Jesus Revolution is a 2023 American Christian drama film directed by Jon Erwin and Andrew Erwin, written by Jon Erwin, Jon Gunn, and Brent McCorkle, and based on the 2005 book of the same name by Steve Arterburn and John Sherrill. The film stars Jonathan Roumie as Jesus Christ, along with Joel Courtney, Adelaide Clemens, Melissa Roxburgh, Michael Ealy, and Dennis Quaid.
In this article, we will explore the story of the Jesus Movement, as told in the film Jesus Revolution. We will learn about the movement’s origins, its leaders, and its impact on the world. We will also discuss the film’s strengths and weaknesses, and we will offer our thoughts on its message.
Where to Watch Jesus Revolution
The 2023 film Jesus Revolution is available to watch in theaters and on demand. It is currently available on the following platforms:
- Lionsgate Play: This is the official streaming service of Lionsgate, the studio that released Jesus Revolution. You can sign up for a free 7-day trial of Lionsgate Play and then cancel before the trial ends if you don’t want to continue subscribing.
- Google Play: Google Play is a digital distribution platform that offers movies, TV shows, music, and books. You can rent or purchase Jesus Revolution on Google Play.
- YouTube: YouTube also offers movies for rent or purchase, including Jesus Revolution.
- Vudu: Vudu is another digital distribution platform that offers movies and music. You can rent or purchase Jesus Revolution on Vudu.
- Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video is a subscription streaming service that offers a variety of movies and TV shows, including Jesus Revolution. You can add Jesus Revolution to your Amazon Prime Video library for a one-time fee.
Unveiling the Transformation: Crucial Insights into the Jesus Revolution
| Release Date | February 24, 2023 |
| Director | Jon Erwin and Andrew Erwin |
| Cast | Jonathan Roumie, Joel Courtney, Adelaide Clemens, Melissa Roxburgh, Michael Ealy, Dennis Quaid |
| Based on | The 2005 book of the same name by Steve Arterburn and John Sherrill |
| Genre | Christian drama |
Meet the Dynamic Cast of the Jesus Revolution
| Character | Actor |
|---|---|
| Jesus Christ | Jonathan Roumie |
| Chuck Smith | Joel Courtney |
| Nancy Smith | Adelaide Clemens |
| Patty | Melissa Roxburgh |
| Lonnie Frisbee | Michael Ealy |
| Chuck Smith Sr. | Dennis Quaid |
| Greg Laurie | Jackson Robert Scott |
| Charlie | Nicholas Cirillo |
| Janette Smith | Ally Ioannides |
| Kay | Julia Campbell |
| Paul Little | Sean Astin |
| David Wilkerson | William Sadler |
| John Wimber | Ben Schnetzer |
| Keith Green | Spencer Garrett |
| Susan Murphy | Frances Fisher |
Official Trailer
Lionsgate Movies unveiled the trailer for “Jesus Revolution” on their official YouTube channel on October 21, 2022. Since then, the video has garnered an impressive 25 million views and counting. The trailer kicks off in the summer of 1969, immersing us in the world of a young Greg as he steps onto his school grounds.
His path crosses with Cathe, who pegs him as a “square,” extending an invitation to join her and her hippie comrades for a grand gathering of kindred spirits in the sun-soaked California. The era’s media depiction of these free-spirited youths comes alive on a black-and-white news segment playing in a typical suburban living room, labeling them as “rebels against old-fashioned authority.”
In a twist of fate, the person engrossed in the news bulletin is none other than Pastor Chuck Smith. Initially disapproving of this unconventional approach to faith, Chuck receives a wake-up call when he’s warned that his traditional church could slowly fade away unless he adapts to the changing times.
This realization prompts him to open his doors to the young generation. Chuck’s path intersects with Lonnie Frisbee, a street preacher with a hippie spirit. Despite their opposing personalities, their interactions yield moments of humor and insight. Lonnie graciously agrees to rally his fellow peers to breathe new life into the church.
As the story unfolds, the initially stern Chuck finds his heart thawing, and Greg and Cathe embark on a summer adventure that leaves an indelible mark on their lives.
Box Office
“Jesus Revolution,” the unexpected indie box office sensation, narrates the tale of the authentic “Jesus freak” movement, seen through the perspective of youth minister Greg Laurie, portrayed by Joel Courtney. Unfolding during the late 1960s and 1970s, this movement primarily took root in California. Its essence lay in an attempt to meld certain convictions and practices from the hippie counterculture with Evangelicalism.
This fusion inevitably gave rise to some anticipated clashes; for instance, the film depicts Lonnie Frisbee, a hippie preacher portrayed by Jonathan Roumie, who paradoxically opposed homosexuality while grappling with his own gay identity. However, it also led to a swiftly expanding community of spirited young individuals who sought an alternative way of life in the embrace of born-again Christianity.
Guide to the Cast and Characters of ‘Jesus Revolution’: The Stars of the Faith-Based Film
Helmed by directors Jon Erwin and Brent McCorkle, ‘Jesus Revolution’ stands as a polished and inspiring faith-based true story in its cinematic craft and narrative essence.
Explore the cast and characters of ‘Jesus Revolution’ showcased below.
Joel Courtney as Greg Laurie
Portraying Greg Laurie is Joel Courtney, embodying a young man entangled in the web of drugs and negative associations. At his lowest point, Greg encounters Lonnie Frisbee, a charismatic street-preacher hippie, who becomes the catalyst for Greg’s rediscovery of faith and purpose.
Joel Courtney marked his debut as a lead in the retro sci-fi adventure ‘Super 8,’ directed by J.J. Abrams. Subsequent roles included appearances in horror films like ‘Don’t Let Me Go’ and ‘Mercy,’ as well as taking the spotlight in the Netflix romantic-comedy trilogy ‘The Kissing Booth.’ Courtney’s talents also graced various television productions, including the short-lived supernatural series ‘The Messengers on CW, and an unforgettable appearance in ‘Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’
Kelsey Grammer as Chuck Smith
Kelsey Grammer plays Chuck Smith, a pastor whose church is losing members. He meets Lonnie Frisbee, a hippie preacher, and discovers a group of young Christians who want to be noticed.
Kelsey Grammer became famous for his role as Dr. Frasier Crane in the show ‘Cheers’ and its spin-off ‘Frasier,’ where he won awards. He’s also known for his voice work in ‘The Simpsons’ and ‘Toy Story 2.’ Grammer acted in movies like ‘Down Periscope,’ ‘X-Men: The Last Stand’ as Beast, and ‘The God Committee.’ He’s going to be back as Frasier Crane in the new version of the show on Paramount+.
Anna Grace Barlow as Cathe Martin
Playing the role of Cathe Martin is Anna Grace Barlow, depicting a young lady who’s feeling let down by the carefree attitude of her friends. She discovers comfort in a blossoming community of young Christians and eventually meets her future husband, Greg Laurie.
Anna Grace Barlow gained recognition for her character Bethany Stevens in the TV show ‘Scream Queens.’ She later appeared in ongoing roles in ‘The Fosters and ‘The Young and the Restless,’ along with the comedy series ‘The Big Leap.
Jonathan Roumie as Lonnie Frisbee
Taking on the role of Lonnie Frisbee is Jonathan Roumie, portraying a charismatic hippie preacher. Together with Pastor Chuck Smith, they sowed the initial seeds of a religious movement within the counter-culture Christian youth.
Jonathan Roumie gained recognition for his remarkable portrayal of Jesus Christ in ‘The Chosen,’ a historical drama funded by the crowd. This show focuses on Jesus and the diverse individuals who crossed paths with him. Roumie is also recognized for his voice work, notably in the video games ‘Evolve’ and ‘The Darkness II.
Kimberly Williams-Paisley as Charlene Laurie
Playing the character Charlene Laurie is Kimberly Williams-Paisley, portraying Greg’s mother. Her party-focused lifestyle and emotional manipulation have distanced her from her son.
Kimberly Williams-Paisley introduced herself to the big screen as Annie Banks, the daughter of Steve Martin and Diane Keaton, in ‘Father of the Bride.’ Her performance earned her nominations for various awards, and she returned to the role in the sequel ‘Father of the Bride II.’ Williams-Paisley is also recognized for her significant roles in the TV sitcom ‘According to Jim and the drama ‘Nashville.
Julia Campbell as Kay Smith
Bringing Kay Smith to life is Julia Campbell, portraying Pastor Chuck Smith’s wife. She stands by her husband’s decision to guide their congregation in a bold new direction, even if she’s not entirely at ease with the influx of hippie members.
Julia Campbell boasts a rich acting career with numerous appearances in TV series, notably the soap opera ‘Ryan’s Hope,’ the quirky comedy ‘Herman’s Head,’ and the science fiction drama ‘Heroes.’ In the realm of film, Campbell is most recognized for her role as a ‘mean girl’ in ‘Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion.
DeVon Franklin as Josiah
Taking on the role of Josiah is DeVon Franklin, portraying a journalist who documents the emerging wave of young Christians. Although initially doubtful, Josiah becomes captivated by the unwavering dedication of these hippie Christians. His newfound belief led to his iconic 1971 Time Magazine cover story titled ‘The Jesus Movement.'”
DeVon Franklin, a sought-after preacher and bestselling author, made his impact in the film industry as a producer, spearheading faith-based movies like ‘Miracles from Heaven’ and ‘The Star’ through his production company. Franklin also held the position of senior vice president of production at Columbia TriStar, where he played a key role in successful film ventures such as ‘The Karate Kid’ and ‘The Pursuit of Happyness.
Nic Bishop as Dick Martin
Playing the role of Dick is Nic Bishop, depicting Cathe’s discontented father. He’s wary of her newfound connection to the church, and he’s even less thrilled about her boyfriend Greg, who is a youth minister.
Hailing from England and now based in Australia, actor Nic Bishop is recognized by American audiences for his portrayal of medical investigator Peter Dunlop in the first two seasons of the medical drama ‘Body of Proof.’ He’s also known as Ryan McQuaid, a Navy SEAL turned contractor billionaire, in ‘Covert Affairs.’ In addition, Bishop has made his mark as Detective Peter Baker in the Australian soap opera ‘Home and Away.
Charlie Morgan Patton as Connie Frisbee
Portraying Connie Frisbee is Charlie Morgan Patton, embodying the role of the wife to the hippie preacher Lonnie. While she backs her husband’s cause, their marriage bears the strain of his newfound fame.
Charlie Morgan Patton took the lead in the comedy series ‘Dated’ and made appearances in the miniseries ‘Airport Security Squad as well as the Ed Helms comedy series ‘Rutherford Falls.’ Patton also shines in the sports comedy ’80 for Brady,’ starring alongside Sally Field and Jane Fonda.
Conclusion
Released in 2023, ‘Jesus Revolution’ is a powerful depiction of the Jesus Movement that swept through Southern California in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The film impresses with its strong performances, direction, and production quality, effectively capturing the movement’s energy.
Timely in its release, the movie offers a message of hope in a chaotic world. However, some may find its religious themes overly prominent, and it occasionally struggles with balancing historical accuracy and storytelling.
Overall, ‘Jesus Revolution’ is an inspiring film that tells a tale of hope and transformation, leaving a lasting impact.
