One of the top filmmakers in the faith-based and inspirational genre has acquired the rights to produce a family film about legendary actor and Oscar winner Jimmy Stewart.
Stewart is famous for starring in the 1946 classic film It’s a wonderful life But before that, he served in World War II, flying bombers over Germany. His one Oscar win was not for that famous movie, but for another hit. philadelphia story (1940).
Burns and Co. Productions acquired exclusive rights to the film. Aaron Byrne, the company’s director and producer, is leading the effort to turn the story into a film.director burns born outlaw and legacy peak and produced War room and overcomer, Among other things.
Burns & Co. is developing the script with Stewart’s daughter Kelly Stewart-Harcourt, who also serves as executive producer. The famous actor passed away in 1997.
“This is a story that I fell in love with many years ago,” Burns told Christian Headlines. “Of course we all know he’s a movie actor. It’s a wonderful life Other classic works such as Mr. Smith goes to Washington.. And I remember watching those movies over and over again with my family as a kid. [But] I didn’t know that he was a World War II veteran and actually the commander of a squadron precision bombing over Germany. ”
The “desperation and passion” that Stewart gained from his service in World War II was channeled into the character of George Bailey in the film. It’s a wonderful lifesaid Burns.
“The themes that emerged in that movie were really reflective of Jimmy’s life, where he’s been and where he’s gone,” Burns said.
Burns said Stewart’s father often prayed for him during the war.
“Making that film was transformative, bringing him personal and spiritual healing and launching his subsequent acting career, but it also transformed him as a father and husband. ” he said. “And it’s been so fun to connect with Kelly, one of his twin daughters, and talk about her father’s legacy.”
It’s a wonderful life Burns said it helped the country heal after World War II.The title of the movie is a working title. really wonderful life It will also include themes such as citizenship, community, family and prayer.
“We’re having a lot of fun working on the script, planning all the production, meeting with studios and partners, and diving into history,” he said.
Photo credit: Liberty Film
Michael Faust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His story was published in Baptist Press. Christianity Today, Christian Poecent, of leaf chronicle, of toronto star and of knoxville news sentinel.
