Dallas Jenkins’ Early Film ‘What If?’ Returns to Theaters for 15th Anniversary
Movies
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9:10 AM on Tuesday, July 22
By Michael Foust, Movies
Long before filmmaker Dallas Jenkins became a household name for The Chosen, he directed another project -- a movie called What If? -- that drew comparisons to It's a Wonderful Life and became a favorite among its cast and crew, even if it never reached worldwide fame. The lead actor, Kevin Sorbo, still considers it one of his all-time favorites.
"I've shot over 90 movies in my life, and this is in my top three," Sorbo says.
The film tells the story of a man who walks away from his faith in pursuit of career success -- only to be given a glimpse into the life he could have had if he had made better choices. Sorbo portrays the lead character, Ben Walker, while John Ratzenberger (Cheers, Inside Out franchise), plays the angel. It also stars Kristy Swanson, Kristin Minter, Debby Ryan and Stelio Savante.
Celebrating its 15th anniversary, What If? (PG) is releasing again in theaters Aug. 5 and 7, featuring a cast reunion bonus conversation.
"Here it is 15 years old, [and] I talk about it all the time," Sorbo told Crosswalk Headlines. "I do a lot of speaking events … And every one of these, I talk about it."
The film's plot explores timeless, universal themes, Sorbo said -- ones that, in his view, are more relevant than ever in today's society.
"I hope [moviegoers] come out feeling the hope that we need. I think we live in such crazy times. I think this movie has hope. It's got laughter, it's got redemption, it's got love, it's got all the things that I think are missing, not only in America, but in the world right now," he said.
Then, a newcomer to feature films, Jenkins sent the script to Sorbo for feedback. Sorbo was quickly drawn to the story -- and to the lead role.
"I said, 'Who's playing Ben?' And he says, 'Well, maybe this guy, that guy.' I said, 'No, no, I'm playing.' He goes, 'Dude, I can't afford you.'"
Still, Sorbo urged Jenkins to cast him as Ben Walker for the same rate he was offering other actors. He recalls Jenkins as a passionate and prepared filmmaker.
"Dallas put a great team together. He was very driven. He is organized," Sorbo said. "... The guy was ready to shoot the way he wanted to shoot."
Jenkins said the film "remains one of my favorite projects ever, and it's become a bit of a cult classic over the years."
In a world often marked by division and hate, What If? offers a reminder of faith and purpose, Sorbo said.
"I'm hoping people see this movie and realize there's a better way to have your life lived, instead of the way that people are living their life now," he said.
Photo Credit: ©Fathom
Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, The Christian Post, the Leaf-Chronicle, the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel.
Listen to Michael's Podcast! He is the host of Crosswalk Talk, a podcast where he talks with Christian movie stars, musicians, directors, and more. Hear how famous Christian figures keep their faith a priority in Hollywood and discover the best Christian movies, books, television, and other entertainment. You can find Crosswalk Talk on LifeAudio.com, or subscribe on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an interview that will be sure to encourage your faith.
