--which followed the grass-roots efforts by the makers of Fireproof and To Save a Life--debuted at No. 10 at the weekend.

Rated PG-13 for thematic material, Vivendi Entertainment's inspirational drama "was returned to sender," grossing more than $1.2 million in 897 theaters, according to BoxOfficeMojo.com.

Letters to God--inspired by a true story-is about 8-year-old brain-cancer patient Tyler (Tanner McGuire of House, M.D.; Lost), who writes daily letters to God to help him cope in his fight against cancer.

The film--which had a budget of $3.5 million and was directed by David Nixon, one of the producers of Facing the Giants and Fireproof--received mixed reviews.

The Orlando Sentinel noted that the movie was "good looking ... but slow and bland," while the Los Angeles Times observed that the film "has sincerity to spare but precious little dramatic tension or filmmaking flare, rendering it more laborious than labor of love."

But the (Troy, N.Y.) Record said it "makes you think and believe that things happen for a reason, and that everyone can make a difference. MovieGuide magazine said the movie was "an impressive, well-written, redemptive, powerful movie that will touch the hearts of most people who see it."

Related products--including the Hope Is Contagious boxed cards from DaySpring and the God's Got My Back tees, hoodies and water bottles from Hope Apparel--were released in conjunction with the movie. Zondervan released last month Letters to God: A Novel by the movie's co-director Patrick Doughtie and John Perry; the Letters to God Bible from Robert Wolgemuth, general editor; a picture book; and journal.

Click here for more information on Letters to God.

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