NASHVILLE, Tenn. (BP) -- Another faith-based film marketed by Provident Films has enjoyed a solid opening weekend.
"Home Run," which tells the story of a Big League baseball player who falls from the spotlight due to his alcoholism and a DUI, finished No. 3 on a per-theater average, pulling in an estimated $4,260 per theater. Because it opened in only 381 theaters -- as compared to the 3,000 or so theaters reserved for big Hollywood movies -- the per-theater average is closely watched. Its total gross of $1.6 million placed it at No. 12, although every movie above it was playing in at least 1,400 theaters.
Provident was the marketer behind "Fireproof" ($8,148 per-theater on opening weekend) and "Courageous" ($7,849), two films that were box office hits. Provident also marketed "October Baby" ($4,352) and Grace Card ($2,870). Home Run's opening weekend numbers are similar to those of October Baby, which Provident considered an opening weekend success.
Kris Fuhr, vice president of theatrical marketing for Provident, told Baptist Press last year that their goal is for a film to make $3,000 per screen. She said at the time that Provident is becoming a "brand" for moviegoers.
"People trust our films and they know that what we're going to bring them is something that not only is going to be personally inspiring but is going to be a wonderful outreach tool," Fuhr said.
Provident's social media has helped its success. Its Fireproof Facebook page is followed by 1.5 million people while its Courageous page is followed by nearly 1 million. Provident has used both pages to promote its additional movies.
Compiled by Michael Foust, associate editor of Baptist Press. Get Baptist Press headlines and breaking news on Twitter (@BaptistPress), Facebook (Facebook.com/BaptistPress ) and in your email ( baptistpress.com/SubscribeBP.asp).
Copyright (c) 2013 Southern Baptist Convention, Baptist Press www.BPNews.net
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