T.C. Christensen, the recipient of more than 270 awards at the national and international level, is currently producing a new film, which is due to be released in mid-spring 2019. The movie is entitled The Fighting Preacher.
Christensen loves to write movies for and about Mormons, even when it means that he has a much lower budget to work with. In an interview with Deseret News, he said:
I think story is everything. I would much rather see a very poorly done, cheap little movie that has a good story than some big Hollywood blockbuster with all the bells and whistles, but the story doesn’t hold water. That’s been my big effort — trying to find stories that are strong and have a meaning so that people come out of the theater with something to chew on and think about, something to talk about with their families.
With the encouragement of his wife, Katy, whom he married in 1980, Christensen has directed or helped produce a collection of LDS films that have captured the hearts and attention of people worldwide. His films include 17 Miracles, Emma Smith: My Story, Joseph Smith: Prophet of the Restoration, The Testaments: Of One Fold and One Shepherd, The Work and the Glory, Only a Stonecutter, and Treasure in Heaven: The John Tanner Story.
His latest film, The Fighting Preacher, is based on the true-life story of Willard and Rebecca Bean. In 1905, Willard Bean became the world middleweight boxing champion. He was asked, by then-President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Joseph F. Smith, to step away from the limelight to serve a five-year mission to Upstate New York. Without hesitation, the Beans packed their bags and headed to the east coast. Upon arriving in Palmyra, New York, they discovered that the hatred that existed against the Church 90 years prior, was still in existence.
The Fighting Preacher is a heartwarming story of a couple that overcomes all odds. Mormon Life Hacker.com reports, “It is truly a David versus Goliath story, as two people take on an entire town filled with hatred. After 24 years in the community, they eventually become loved and respected by one and all. . .. This new film brings elements that make the audience laugh, cry, and most importantly, cheer the underdog.”
Audio PlayerConference Conversations: T.C. Christensen’s The Fighting Preacher.
Willard Bean twice fought and beat my great uncle in Mercur, Utah in 1899. My uncle’s name was Jack Weday. It would really be something if reference to those two fights was made. The second bout was considered a “fizzle” and the fight was stopped after the 6th round. Through your research you may have run across his name. I am very interested in seeing your film and since it is not a Hollywood Blockbuster, how would I be able to see it ? Thank you very much.
Martin,
The film will more than likely be made available at Deseret Book stores. It will also eventually end up on DVD for purchase. Famous Mormons does not have direct contact with T.C. Christensen. So, you may want to contact him through his social media channels and share your story about your great uncle and the fights with Willard Bean.
Hi, Martin. The Fighting Preacher will open in theaters in Utah on July 24th. The film will travel outside of Utah after that. That is so interesting about your uncle. We are as excited as you are to bring The Fighting Preacher to audiences.