As tensions flare in the world, the Oct. 4 release of “White Bird,” the highly-anticipated follow-up to “Wonder,” promises to bring a timely message of compassion and unity to theaters across the country. Kevin Downes, CEO of Kingdom Story Company, the production company behind the film, recently expressed his deep pride in the project and its potential impact.

“For me, ‘White Bird’ is probably in my top five all-time movies as a moviegoer,” he said. “It’s such an easy watch, which I think is what surprised me. Often, World War II movies can get a little heavy, but this one was emotionally moving throughout in a smooth, organic way.”

Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Mark Forster and starring Ariella Glaser, Orlando Schwerdt, Bryce Gheisar, with Gillian Anderson, and Helen Mirren, “White Bird” tells the story of a young French girl named Vivienne, whose life is upended by the Nazi occupation of her country. When a classmate, the grandson of a Nazi officer, comes to her aid, a profound bond is forged that transcends the horrors of war.

Downes, whose production company has a reputation for creating films that showcase the power of the gospel, believes the timing of “White Bird’s” release could not be more crucial.

“We need kindness to permeate throughout our country right now, more than ever,” he said. “And to be able to have such a high-quality film like ‘White Bird’ and have that message at the forefront, without it feeling shoved down your throat, but done in a way that’s emotionally organic, I think is just an honor to be a part of.”

The film’s themes of kindness and compassion during a time of great division and strife have not gone unnoticed by Downes and his team. He acknowledges the parallels between the movie’s release and the current heightened awareness of combating anti-Semitism.

“The fact that it was so in the nose is not necessarily something that’s been in a lot of our films,” Downes said. “And so that’s what attracted me to it. I’m like, ‘Man, this is so needed. We’re going into an election cycle. It’s going to be coming out right before the election.'”

Downes believes that the timing of the film’s release, coupled with its powerful message, could have a profound impact on audiences.

“It’s hard work to make a film,” he said. “It takes a lot of time, a lot of effort, a lot of energy and sweat, and so it’s important for us that people leave the theater with an experience that at least drives them to talk about how they can either better their own life or make a difference in their community.”

The partnership between Kingdom Story Company and Lionsgate, the studio behind “White Bird,” has been a fruitful one, with Downes praising the studio’s recognition of the quality and potential of the films they produce.

“Lionsgate has been a great partner, and they’re seeing that, ‘You know, these guys make great films,'” Downes said. “I think one of the critics, the critic reviews on ‘Ordinary Angels,’ said the quote was, ‘These guys are like the A24 of the faith space,’ which I take as a compliment.”

While “White Bird” may be one of the standout releases for Kingdom Story this year, the company has a diverse slate of films on the horizon, including the upcoming “Unbreakable Boy” and “Sarah’s Oil,” set to hit theaters in 2025.

Downes is particularly excited about “Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” which he believes is “one of the best we’ve made” and will appeal to audiences of all ages.

“It’s funny, it’s emotional, and it’s just it moves really quickly and it’s really great,” he said.

“White Bird,” directed by Mark Forster, will release in theaters Oct. 4 from Kingdom Story Company and Lionsgate Studios.

DEWAYNE HAMBY is a communications specialist and longtime journalist covering faith-based music, entertainment, books, and the retail industry. He is the author of the book “Gratitude Adjustment.” Connect with him at on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or Instagram.