A Strong Debut in Theaters for "The Forge"

The latest faith-based picture from the Kendrick Brothers claims a Top-5 spot at the box office despite a modest release footprint.

Promotional artwork for "The Forge," starring Karen Abercrombie, Cameron Arnett, Aspen Kennedy, and Priscilla Shirer (from left). Image: Affirm Films.

The Forge brought in more than $6.6 million on its first weekend, according to The Numbers website, putting it in fifth place overall from Friday through Sunday. That figure looks even better in light of the fact that it released in just 1,818 theaters, which is low for a major-studio release. The film also received top marks from audiences, with opening night moviegoers surveyed by CinemaScore giving it a rare A+ rating.

"The Forge" earned an A+ CinemaScore rating from opening night audiences. Image: CinemaScore/from Instagram.

The story focuses on a young man without direction in life - played by newcomer Aspen Kennedy - until he is taken under the wing of a committed Christian businessman. Portrayed by Cameron Arnett, that character both mentors and disciples him.

And it is discipleship that is at the heart of this production from the brother duo of Alex and Stephen Kendrick, former pastors and top filmmakers in the Christian genre (they co-wrote the screenplay, with Alex also directing and Stephen producing). The Forge features a strong cast of Christian actors in addition to the aforementioned Arnett: Karen Abercrombie, Priscilla Shirer, and T.C. Stallings, all of whom have worked with the Kendricks on previous projects.