In the ongoing cultural battles that define much of American media, a small Utah-based studio is making waves by challenging Hollywood’s perceived “wokeness.” Angel Studios, co-founded by four Mormon brothers, has found a lucrative niche by producing content that resonates with audiences often overlooked by mainstream Hollywood. Their breakout hit, “Sound of Freedom,” exemplifies this approach, grossing $250 million worldwide and outperforming major franchises like Disney’s “Indiana Jones.”
Jordan Harmon, one of Angel Studios’ co-founders, believes Hollywood is disconnected from the average person. “We make movies for the other 90 percent,” he said. This sentiment is echoed in the studio’s business model, which involves a membership base known as the “Angel Guild.” For a monthly fee, members vote on which movies or shows the studio should produce, ensuring that the content aligns with their values.
Angel Studios initially started as VidAngel, a service that allowed parents to filter out explicit content from popular films and shows. After facing legal challenges over copyright infringement, the company rebranded and shifted its focus to creating original content. Today, many of their films and shows feature Christian themes, with a manifesto promising to “amplify light.”
“The Chosen,” a television series about the life of Jesus, has garnered over 700 million episode views, showcasing the studio’s ability to attract a dedicated audience. However, the success of “Sound of Freedom” has also brought criticism. The film, which features overt religious messages and a plot some likened to QAnon conspiracy theories, has been accused of exaggerating the issue of child trafficking.
Despite the controversy, Harmon remains unfazed. “Haters can criticize all they want,” he said. He argues that the film’s success is a result of listening to what the audience wants, a principle he describes as “entrepreneurship 101.”
Angel Studios’ next project, “Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot,” is set to launch over the July 4 weekend. The film tells the true story of a small Texas town where 22 families adopted dozens of at-risk children in the 1990s. Harmon describes the film as “very, very pro-life,” although it doesn’t directly address the nation’s ongoing debate over abortion.
The studio’s ambitions don’t stop there. They are venturing into animation with “David,” an animated musical about the biblical king, set for release next year. Angel Studios aims to make it “the most viewed animated film ever released,” positioning themselves as a direct competitor to Disney.
Harmon criticizes Disney for prioritizing politics over storytelling, citing the backlash against the “Star Wars: The Acolyte” series for its LGBTQ themes. “They’ve disenfranchised and hurt their brand in such a significant way over the last years,” he said. Angel Studios aims to fill that gap by focusing on stories that resonate with a broader audience.
The studio’s “pay it forward” model, which encouraged fans to buy theater tickets for strangers, has also faced scrutiny. Critics accused the model of artificially inflating box office figures, leading the company to publish a spreadsheet of costs and profits online to maintain transparency.
“Sound of Freedom” has united religious conservatives and Trump supporters, becoming a flashpoint in the culture wars. The film’s lead actor, Jim Caviezel, has been vocal about his right-wing beliefs, further fueling the controversy. Despite this, the film has found a dedicated audience, with many viewers convinced that it sheds light on a significant issue.
As Angel Studios continues to grow, their approach to filmmaking offers a stark contrast to Hollywood’s traditional methods. By focusing on stories that resonate with a broader audience and involving their membership base in the decision-making process, they are carving out a unique space in the entertainment industry.
In an era where cultural and political divisions are increasingly reflected in media, Angel Studios’ success suggests that there is a substantial audience for content that aligns with conservative values. Whether this approach will continue to yield blockbuster hits remains to be seen, but for now, Angel Studios is making its mark in the culture wars.
