‘Sacred Heart’ Lands U.S. Theatrical Release Through Fathom Entertainment – Film News in Brief

Published by Variety on Apr 07, 2026 2:15 PM

‘Sacred Heart’ Lands U.S. Theatrical Release Through Fathom Entertainment – Film News in Brief

By Jazz Tangcay, Arushi Jacob, Kennedy French

Apr 7, 2026 2:15pm PT

Fathom Entertainment has acquired U.S. theatrical distribution rights to the French docudrama “Sacred Heart,” setting a limited release for June 9–11 and June 14.

Directed and produced by Steven Gunnell and Sabrina Gunnell of KREA Film-Makers, the film explores the origins and enduring significance of the Catholic devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, rooted in the 17th-century visions of Margaret Mary Alacoque in Paray-le-Monial, France.

Blending dramatized sequences with commentary from clergy, historians and theologians, “Sacred Heart” also incorporates contemporary testimonials from individuals reflecting on the devotion’s impact. The film will screen in both English-dubbed and Spanish-language versions across its four-day U.S. run.

Originally released in France in October 2025, the film drew close to 1 million admissions across Europe, positioning it as a breakout success in the faith-based space. Saje Distribution handled the film’s European rollout.

“The world is dying from not knowing it is loved by God,” said the Gunnells in a statement. “This film is simply an answer and an invitation — an invitation toward this divine love.”

The project was inspired by the Gunnells’ visit to religious sites in Burgundy, including Paray-le-Monial, where the historical events depicted in the film are said to have taken place. Their work continues to focus on faith-driven storytelling through their production banner.

Following the feature, U.S. screenings will include a bonus segment featuring clergy and lay voices discussing the modern relevance of the Sacred Heart devotion, including commentary tied to a planned consecration effort by U.S. Catholic bishops timed to the film’s release window.