DeVon Franklin on “Ruth & Boaz“: Reimagining a Biblical Story for a Modern Audience
DeVon Franklin, a prolific film producer and author known for inspirational storytelling, is bringing a fresh perspective to a classic biblical narrative with his latest Netflix release, “Ruth & Boaz.” The film, a contemporary adaptation of the Book of Ruth, has already sparked conversation about its accessibility and the power of faith-based filmmaking.In a recent interview, Franklin discussed the creative process, casting choices, and future plans for his partnership with Netflix.
Why Ruth & Boaz? A Story for Everyone.
Franklin explained the deliberate choice to focus on Ruth and Boaz, acknowledging the familiarity many have with stories like noah’s Ark. Though,he felt Ruth’s story offered a unique possibility. “The cool part about the movie is that those who know the story, great! But it doesn’t require you to know it,” he stated.
He envisions the film as a gateway, sparking curiosity and encouraging viewers to explore the original text. This dual approach – appealing to those familiar with the Bible while welcoming newcomers – was a key goal. Franklin believes “Ruth & Boaz” can operate on both levels, offering thankfulness for those in the know and discovery for those who aren’t.
Finding the Perfect Ruth and Boaz: A Casting Journey
The success of any adaptation hinges on strong performances, and Franklin credits casting director Leah Daniels Butler for identifying extraordinary talent. The search was extensive, involving auditions of over one hundred actors for each role.
* Serayah as Ruth: Franklin had previously worked with Serayah on a television series and specifically encouraged her to audition, despite her initial reluctance to participate in another music-focused project. He recognized her potential to embody Ruth’s character. “It was very evident that she had all the things that we were looking for,” he shared.
* Tyler Lepley as Boaz: lepley’s casting was a last-minute revelation. A self-tape submission instantly impressed the team. “When we watched the tape, we said, ’Welp. There’s Boaz,'” franklin recalled.A subsequent chemistry read confirmed their instincts, showcasing an undeniable connection between Lepley and Serayah.
Franklin emphasized that their on-screen chemistry is palpable in the finished film,a testament to the careful casting process.
The Power of Process and Future Projects
Franklin’s approach to filmmaking is rooted in trust. “I believe that if you commit to the process, the process will always take you where you need to be,” he explained. This philosophy guided the casting and development of “Ruth & Boaz.”
While remaining tight-lipped about specifics, Franklin hinted at exciting developments for his partnership with Netflix.A major announcement regarding their second faith-based film – including the story and cast – is forthcoming. He promises it will be another uplifting and inspiring project.
Why this Matters: faith-Based Filmmaking in a Modern landscape
“Ruth & Boaz” represents a growing trend in faith-based filmmaking - a desire to create content that resonates with contemporary audiences while remaining true to core values. Franklin’s approach,focusing on relatable characters and compelling storytelling,demonstrates a commitment to bridging the gap between faith and entertainment.
This film isn’t just about retelling a biblical story; it’s about offering a message of hope, redemption, and love to a wider audience. And with a dedicated team and a clear vision, DeVon Franklin is poised to continue making a significant impact on the landscape of inspirational cinema.
Thank you to DeVon Franklin for sharing his insights on “Ruth & boaz.”
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