Here’s today’s dispatch from the crossroads of faith and media.

The Shack releases in theaters nationwide on March 3, 2017.

Based on Paul Young’s amazingly popular book (which I understand is one of the top bestselling 100 novels of all time) stars Sam Worthington (Avatar, Hacksaw Ridge), Octavia Spencer (The Help) and the country music star Tim McGraw. It’s produced by Gil Netter (Life of Pi, The Blindside).

I just saw a first half hour or so of the film and I can tell you that I want to see this movie in its entirety. Worthington’s performance  as a man who spirals into depression  after the violent death of his young daughter at the hands of a killer is quietly compelling. I have a feeling this successful actor is one hit away from major stardom and this movie may be it. We may also be hearing more from Stuart Hazeldine, the relatively unknown but obviously assured and talented director behind the scenes. I didn’t even get to the part where Octavia Spencer arrives on the scene as an incarnation of God. So, I’m thinking I haven’t even seen the best part.

Encourage one another and build each other up – 1 Thessalonians 5:11