The new movie, “Pursuit of Freedom,” which opens in select US theaters and video-on-demand nationwide today (Sept. 16), is a bold, unapologetically faith-based action film about the real-life drama of a Ukrainian woman who was separated from her children, victimized by Russian gangsters and sold into human trafficking.
Then, in an unexpected twist, God supernaturally intervenes.
How the main character reunites with her children through a series of twists and turns illustrates the hand of God at work in a true story of redemption. Amid gritty, escalating suspense and an eye-opening backdrop of the reality of human trafficking, the movie offers genuine hope.
“Our film ‘Pursuit of Freedom’ is the true story of a modern-day miracle,” says George A. Johnson, the director and writer of the movie. “It’s a reminder that no matter how bad things seem to get in the world around us, God is still there. He never leaves or forsakes us, even when things appear to be hopeless.
“An incredibly compelling story based on real life is told through this film. Anna and her children experienced unbelievable suffering and hopelessness, yet they refused to give up hope,” he adds, emphasizing that this is not fiction. “As their world crumbled around them, they had every reason to believe that life was over, and that things would never be the same again, yet they didn’t give up.”
The miracle that God did in this family’s life that inspired the movie presents the ultimate plot twist. A cast member likened it to a “Red Sea moment.”
Johnson translated the real-life happenings of this Ukrainian family onto the big screen. “We worked hard to create a powerful cinematic experience that both believers and non-believers could enjoy. This is a faith-based film that you can watch with your non-believing friends.”
One of the actresses in the movie is Robia Scott, an inspirational conference speaker, published author and head of Robia Scott Ministries (www.robiascott.com). She describes “Pursuit of Freedom” as a movie that “keeps you on the edge of your seat” and brings truth to the screen, but it’s balanced with the lightness of comedy and an uplifting feeling.
Robia says, “It’s inspirational to see in the film how no matter what they’re up against, no matter what challenges they’re facing, no matter how much it feels like all hope is lost, as if there is just absolutely no way that things can work out, then God makes a way.”
“There are some moments in this film that you just can’t quite believe the way things unfold, but the way God supernaturally intervenes creates a memorable Red Sea moment,” adds Robia, who plays a lawyer in a critical role in the action film.
For the audience, Robia predicts that people will be surprised at the high quality of the cinematography. “The movie is beautifully shot. It actually looks a little bit edgy, a little bit gritty. It’s not cheesy. There’s some real action.”
Robia skyrocketed to success touring the world as a dancer with Prince and starring in hit television shows such as “Beverly Hills,” “90210” and “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.” More recently, she played a major role in the movie “Unplanned,” which God used to bring her back into the film industry in a big way.
“During the time of “Unplanned,’ I felt like things were being highlighted and revealed internationally about the issue of life, and I feel like the same thing is happening with this movie ‘Pursuit of Happiness’ in regards to human trafficking. It’s a very timely movie,” Robia says.
“I believe this issue that the movie tackles is on the forefront right now. I believe that we’re going to see more things be exposed in America and around the world.”
This movie is part of raising awareness in an engaging way with the action, drama and suspense of a thriller.
Trafficking of women and children has become an enormous problem in the Ukraine during the current war. Traffickers disguise themselves as rescue workers and approach women and children, asking if they need food or medical attention. They then lead them to a vehicle and drive off with them, never to be seen again.
“It’s nothing short of tragic what is happening over there, and around the world,” Johnson remarks.
For the director/writer of the movie, the process of writing this story increased his own awareness about human trafficking.
Johnson says, “I knew that trafficking existed, but I didn’t understand it much at all. I think that, until recent years, most people didn’t realize how prevalent it is, and how many lives are impacted by it all over the world. It’s critical that we shine a light on it, and work together to bring it to an end. It’s not just something that’s happening in the far corners of the earth. It’s something that’s happening right here at home as well.”
“The film definitely shines a light on the horrors of trafficking, but the greater light is shined on the hope that is found in Jesus Christ, and the reminder that even when life seems to be at its worst, God is still near.”
The makers of “Pursuit of Freedom” have partnered with Hope for Justice, and a portion of the proceeds from the movie will go toward fighting human trafficking.
Listen to The Roaring Heart Podcast featuring an interview with Jaime Torres, author of the book “You Can’t Kill the Miracle” and prophetic minister who went to the Ukraine to rescue refugees. {eoa}
Anthony Hart is a freelance writer for Charisma News.
See an error in this article?
To contact us or to submit an article
