Angel Studios, the production company behind the popular “Sound of Freedom” movie, has partnered with actress Letitia Wright to bring the inspiring true story of “Possum Trot” to the big screen. The film highlights the remarkable actions of a small Black church in rural East Texas that transformed the lives of countless foster children.
“I was told about the Martin family in Possum Trot, Texas, a few years ago,” Wright said in a press release. “Immediately, I was moved by their compassion and love towards helping children within the foster care system.”
“I found a similar feeling of purpose and desire for change alongside the director and writer who have known the Martins for many years. This film will connect to hearts all over the world and will bring real impact and change for children not only in America but across the world,” according to the “Black Panther” star.
“Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot” tells the story of several Bennett Chapel families who collectively adopted 77 of the most difficult-to-place children in the foster care system. According to Angel Studios, this act of love and compassion ignited a national movement that continues to inspire communities to embrace vulnerable children.
In reality, the Rev. William C. Martin and his wife, Donna, encouraged about 40 other families at Bennet Chapel Missionary Baptist in Possum Trot, Texas, to join them in adopting nearly 80 foster children, many of whom reportedly had experienced abuse or neglect.
Nearly 400,000 children are in the U.S. foster care system, according to President Joe Biden’s “Proclamation on National Foster Care Month.” While foster care is supposed to be temporary, it often becomes a long-term solution due to various challenges in placing children, especially those with special needs or challenging behaviors.
“Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot” is directed by Joshua Weigel, who co-wrote the screenplay with Rebekah Weigel. The couple also produced the film. In addition to Wright, the movie is executive produced by Nika King and Joe Knittig. King, whose credits include “Euphoria” and “Greenleaf,” also stars in “Possum Trot” as first lady Martin. Demetrius Grosse (“Rampage,” “Justified”) plays Rev. Martin. Elizabeth Mitchell (“Lost,” “The Expanse”), Diaana Babnicova, and Carlos Aviles are also among the cast.
The film, also playing in Canada, is slated for a U.S. theatrical release on Independence Day, coinciding with the story’s themes of hope and freedom. Moviegoers can pre-purchase $5 tickets for showings at select theaters via the Angel Studios website.