After a slow start for its debut last week, Like Dandelion Dust--based on the 2006 Center Street novel by New York Times best-selling author Karen Kingsbury--hopes to pick up steam this weekend by more than doubling the number of its theaters.

Starring Academy Award winner Mira Sorvino, Golden Globe nominee Barry Pepper and introducing child actor Maxwell Perry Cotton, Like Dandelion Dust (LDD) centers on the battle between adoptive and birth parents over a 6-year-old boy.

Bobby Downes--co-producer of the independent film with his brother, Kevin--told Christian Retailing that although the movie debuted in only 25 theaters Sept. 24, it was "on track." He added that 36 more screens would be added tomorrow, Oct. 1.

"This is a word-of-mouth-driven film," he said. "People cannot help but talk about it after seeing the movie. Mainstream and Christian film critics love this film."

LDD--which has seen mostly positive reviews, including being called "the next Blind Side" by USA Weekend--has won more than 35 film festival awards since January 2009--including a dozen Audience Choice Awards for Best Picture and recipient of the Heartland Truly Moving Picture Award.

Supporters of the film, including some Christian retailers and suppliers, have been spreading the word about the movie via a social-media campaign to have it shown in more theaters. Hundreds of local grass-roots leaders have mounted "Demand It" campaigns on Facebook to bring the movie to their town, Downes said.

Family Christian Stores is sponsoring Like Dandelion Dust screenings in select cities, with store managers offering moviegoers with LDD merchandise and giveaways, he said. Kerusso--the official apparel partner for the movie--is also sponsoring a screening of the movie in Rogers, Ark., during the weekend of Oct. 8, said CEO and President Vic Kennett.

Additionally, Hachette Book Group recently released movie tie-in editions of the book in mass market and trade paper formats.

Click here for more information on Like Dandelion Dust--rated PG-13 for mature thematic elements, including domestic violence and alcohol abuse.

• Prev
• Next