Back-To-School “SECRETS” About Bullying

Resurrection Pictures Examines Bullying and Launches A Bible-Based Film Ministry with “The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry”

PASADENA, Calif., August 24, 2009—Most kids dread the start of a new school year as it brings early mornings, long days and academic stress. But for one-third of America‟s students, the school year brings a much more harrowing experience—bullying and harassment. Resurrection Pictures—the first tax-exempt ministry dedicated to producing and distributing Christian-themed entertainment for theaters worldwide—is delivering a faith-based film to encourage the thousands of families struggling to prepare, equip and help their children to respond appropriately to bullying—and more.

On September 18—coinciding with back-to-school activities and The Fourth Annual National Bullying Prevention Awareness Week (Oct 4-10)—Resurrection Pictures is partnering with Five & Two Pictures on the theatrical release of “The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry.” Produced by Rich Christiano and starring Gavin MacLeod, The Love Boat’s Captain Stubbing (the older, wiser mentor, Jonathan Sperry), this 70s period film tells the story about three 12-year-old boys who learn to deal with neighborhood bullies by modeling examples found in the Bible.

What does a Christian response to bullying look like? With more than 160,000 kids in the U.S. missing school each day due to being bullied, the Sperry movie is especially relevant for release in the fall,” said Dr. William Harrity, a Pasadena- based anesthesiologist and founder of Resurrection Pictures. “What does a Christian response to any real-life challenge look like? Resurrection Pictures is dedicated to producing and distributing high-quality, culturally relevant films—like the Sperry movie—that answer these questions.

“The Secrets of Jonathan Sperry” will open in theaters across the country on September 18.

The Bible is our Creator’s words and wisdom regarding life here on earth, it provides timeless lessons that can change the way we respond to others and how they in turn respond to us,” said Harrity. “Sharing the life-transforming power of faith in Jesus Christ with people who have never experienced it is our mission. We are excited to be part of this important and timely film.

Story Angles:

• Meet the doctor who is dedicated to saving lives through medicine and saving souls through film—Talk to Dr. William Harrity about the parallels between medicine and evangelism, how he came to found Resurrection Pictures and how he is working to partner with churches to distribute Christian-themed theatrical releases.
• How are your local churches supporting faith-friendly entertainment and influencing the film industry?
• Many anti-bullying programs are now available. Are your local schools ready? How to they compare to each other?