Why Sound of Freedom Hasn’t Received a Sequel

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Why Sound of Freedom Hasn't Received a Sequel

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  • Who Owns the Sound of Freedom Sequel Rights?
  • A Sound of Freedom Sequel Needs Jim Caviezel

As a devoted fan of the Christian thriller genre and someone who closely follows the faith-based film scene, I’ve been eagerly anticipating the release of a sequel to “Sound of Freedom.” Having seen the impact that Jim Caviezel’s presence had on the success of the first film, I firmly believe that his involvement is crucial for establishing the franchise as an enduring and profitable series.

Last summer saw the debut of the Christian thriller film “Sound of Freedom” from the relatively new film distribution and production company, Angel Studios. At the time, it was difficult to predict that this underdog production with no prior major box-office victories would go on to shock the industry and become a blockbuster hit in 2023 and the past decade.

Certainly, the low-budget film “Sound of Freedom,” featuring Jim Caviezel as Tim Ballard, a ex-US agent saving kids from sex trafficking in Colombia, astonishingly surpassed the anticipated blockbusters “Indiana Jones: Dial of Destiny” and “Mission: Impossible — Dead Reckoning Part One.” Despite having production budgets around $300 million each, “Sound of Freedom” was made for under $15 million. The film’s remarkable success led many to anticipate a sequel.

As a dedicated gamer following the Sound of Freedom series, I’ve been eagerly anticipating any news about a potential sequel. But alas, it’s been over a year since its initial release and the chatter surrounding a follow-up has gone quiet. The reason for this silence is a contentious issue concerning Ballard’s life rights – a crucial element in developing the next installment.

Sound of Freedom Is a Victim of Its Own Success

If “Sound of Freedom” had sold about as many tickets domestically as other films produced by Angel Studios, none of which have earned more than $20 million, it’s unlikely that disputes over sequel ownership would exist, since there wouldn’t be a significant financial incentive to argue over this.

Despite the massive earnings of around $250 million from Sound of Freedom‘s global box office, sparked by its blockbuster status, those connected to the production and even external parties are now engaged in heated disputes over who gets what, with the anticipated profitability of a sequel fueling their determination.

In December 2023, Prime Video’s revenue from streaming “Sound of Freedom” significantly increased. This was after they obtained the rights to the movie, which had been filmed in 2018, for an unspecified amount following a fierce bidding war. It’s ironic that this film, produced with good intentions, has become a source of challenges instead, making it difficult to produce a sequel due to its unexpected success.

Who Owns the Sound of Freedom Sequel Rights?

Why Sound of Freedom Hasn't Received a SequelWhy Sound of Freedom Hasn't Received a SequelWhy Sound of Freedom Hasn't Received a SequelWhy Sound of Freedom Hasn't Received a SequelWhy Sound of Freedom Hasn't Received a SequelWhy Sound of Freedom Hasn't Received a Sequel

If “Sound of Freedom” had been produced and released by a large Hollywood studio instead of Angel Studios, the rights to make sequels would have already been resolved before the movie hit theaters. This is a common procedure in the film industry. But since Angel Studios, a newer independent distributor, handled the distribution, this matter was not addressed prior to release.

In 2015, Alejandro Monteverde acquired the life rights of “Sound of Freedom” character Tim Ballard. At that time, there was no anticipation that the movie would generate enough popularity for a sequel. Initially, Monteverde planned to showcase Ballard’s story within the broader framework of the international child sex trafficking trade. However, he simplified the script for “Sound of Freedom” by focusing on it as Ballard’s backstory instead.

After the debut of “Sound of Freedom,” Monteverde disclosed that he had penned a follow-up script centering on Ballard’s establishment of Operation Underground Railroad and his daring rescue operations in Haiti. Yet, development on the sequel came to a standstill in August 2023, following Mike Ilitch Jr.’s unexpected assertion that he held exclusive rights to Ballard’s life story for creating a sequel with him.

If this is the case, Angel Studios might have the rights to the “Sound of Freedom” name, enabling them to potentially create a sequel with a new main character. At the same time, Ilitch could produce a follow-up film titled differently, featuring Jim Caviezel reprising his role as Ballard.

In this unique situation, it appears that an accord between the parties is the most probable solution. This is particularly advantageous for Ilitch, as he would significantly gain by having Angel Studios and Monteverde involved in any potential “Sound of Freedom” sequel due to their strong connection with faith-based audiences. However, given the substantial financial gains at stake from a sequel, it’s unlikely that this disagreement will persist indefinitely.

A Sound of Freedom Sequel Needs Jim Caviezel

Jim Caviezel’s controversial standing in Hollywood didn’t hinder the achievement of “Sound of Freedom”s success. In fact, it might have been a factor, as Caviezel has become an emblematic figure for faith-based viewers, deeply moved by his portrayal of Jesus Christ in the 2004 film “The Passion of the Christ.”

As a devoted fan, I can’t help but note how deeply the Sound of Freedom movie resonated with faith-based communities, serving as a powerful rallying cry against Hollywood and other cultural institutions. This is most evident through the pivotal role played by Caviezel in this film. His commitment to the project was crucial for its triumphant success. In my opinion, Caviezel’s presence in any future Sound of Freedom sequels is indispensable, ensuring the longevity and profitability of this inspiring franchise. Don’t miss out on experiencing this powerful story again – Sound of Freedom is currently streaming on Prime Video.

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2024-07-22 01:31