Mark Sourian, president of production at 5&2 Studios, is confident that Hollywood can no longer afford to overlook the massive demand for high-quality faith-based content. In a recent interview at the Cannes Film Festival, Sourian highlighted how undeniable audience numbers and commercial success have forced the industry to pay attention to this previously underserved market.

The studio behind the global hit series The Chosen is now preparing its most ambitious project yet: a full-length theatrical feature titled The Crucifixion, which will serve as a centerpiece of Season 7. Unlike previous episodic releases, this film is designed for a major worldwide theatrical rollout through Amazon MGM Studios. Sourian draws parallels to the cultural impact of Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ in 2004, noting the significant industry excitement surrounding the project. Amazon MGM secured exclusive distribution rights after what Sourian described as an internal bidding war, further demonstrating the growing confidence major platforms have in faith-based productions.

Beyond distribution, 5&2 Studios places enormous emphasis on cultural adaptation and accessibility. The studio recently earned a Guinness World Record for The Chosen as the most translated television series in history. Partnering with the nonprofit Come and See, the team invests substantial time and resources into not just literal translations but meaningful cultural adaptations that preserve the original intent and emotional depth of the biblical narrative. This meticulous process, while costly, ensures the story resonates authentically with diverse global audiences.

Sourian stressed that grassroots engagement remains central to their strategy. Through strong relationships with churches and faith communities worldwide, the studio continues to build a loyal, dedicated fanbase. This “fan-first” philosophy sets 5&2 Studios apart from traditional Hollywood operations. Jenkins and the team maintain direct, ongoing communication with viewers through social media, annual ChosenCon events, and merchandise, fostering a relationship built on trust and shared purpose.

Looking ahead, the studio has an ambitious slate of projects designed to keep audiences engaged long after The Chosen concludes. A limited series on Joseph is already completed and slated for a 2027 release. Dallas Jenkins will then take on the role of showrunner and director for a three-season series about Moses, with filming expected to begin in 2028. A subsequent series based on the Book of Acts is also in development. Additionally, the studio is venturing into unscripted content with Chosen in the Wild, a reality series featuring adventurer Bear Grylls, who will take Jenkins and cast members — including Jonathan Roumie — into the wilderness.

To manage costs while maintaining high production values, 5&2 Studios is cautiously exploring the use of artificial intelligence for tasks such as set design and costuming. However, Sourian made it clear that authenticity remains non-negotiable. The studio is determined to use AI responsibly, avoiding any technology that might compromise the genuine feel of their biblical storytelling.

Sourian expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve an audience that mainstream Hollywood has long ignored. He described the journey as both exciting and fulfilling, noting how 5&2 Studios has successfully delivered premium content to a community hungry for meaningful, high-quality biblical material. As The Crucifixion approaches, Sourian and the team remain focused on honoring the story and the fans who have supported them from the beginning. What started as a risky independent project has evolved into a powerful movement with the potential to impact generations through compelling, faith-centered entertainment.