May 14, 2026

Two Upcoming Films That Caught My Attention

New films I’m looking forward to watching are Animal Farm and Sheep Detectives. Unfortunately, I’ve heard mostly negative things about Animal Farm. I haven’t seen it yet, but since the closest theater playing it is four hours away, I may have to wait for it to release on the ANGEL app. Sheep Detectives, starring Hugh Jackman, looks really good. It first caught my attention because of the coloring in the trailer. I’ve heard positive things about it, so I’m looking forward to seeing it as well. It looks like a clean, good-ol' family adventure.

May 14, 2026

Slowing Down to Tell the Story Better

We have two major goals for the second episode of End of the Santa Fe Trail. The first and most important is spending more time with the actors and helping guide them through their characters so their performances can stand out. The second goal goes hand in hand with the first: slowing down and filming awkward scenes more professionally. Faustina and I have spent the most time on a scene where a dying man forgives his murderer before passing away. It has come a long way and we are really liking the way it is shaping up.

You can watch the first episode of End of the Santa Fe Trail here.
If you would like to help us tell this story, you can contribute to the crowdfunding campaign here.

May 14, 2026

Building a Western Town…Or Finding One

We have completed the third draft for the second episode of End of the Santa Fe Trail. I was budgeting what it would cost to build a mini Western town for this film, but then I discovered an actual movie set on a ranch in New Mexico. I have a call with them later today to see what filming there would be like. I was excited to learn that Jimmy Stewart, Chuck Norris, Russell Crowe, and Christian Bale have all been in movies filmed there. More recently, David Henrie filmed a movie there that will be released on ANGEL this fall. We are all really pumped and excited about this opportunity!

You can watch the first episode of End of the Santa Fe Trail here.
If you would like to help us tell this story, you can contribute to the crowdfunding campaign here.

May 14, 2026

What Comes Next on the Santa Fe Trail

The first episode of End of the Santa Fe Trail is ready to watch now. But this is just the beginning of the story.

The next episode is scripted and a bit more action-packed than the first one. No spoilers, but I'm getting really excited to see this chapter come to life. And...this episode features another appearance of Billy the Kid.

Right now, this episode is currently in the funding stage. To bring real authenticity to it, we are going to need to build a small Western town complete with a sheriff's office and a jail. New costumes will be needed for Sheriff Pat Garrett and Governor Lew Wallace.

Besides this exciting next step on the End of the Santa Fe journey, we are also going to be doing several showings of the first episode to share the story with more people. Exciting things are happening and we can't wait to share this next chapter of Sister Blandina's story with you.

Watch the first episode of End of the Santa Fe Trail now!

May 13, 2026

The Classroom Story We Never Forgot

We first heard about Sister Blandina in a 6th grade reader when we were going through Seaton Home School. The story was about a young girl traveling out West to visit family I believe. While on the stage she sees two Sisters of Charity. A gentleman on the stage introduces her to Sister Blandina as the nun sho saved the doctors in Trinidad by begging Billy the Kid to not scap them for not helping a friend of his. While the group is traveling, there is a hold up and the leader of the gang is none other than Billy the Kid himself. The short story ends when he calls off his men at the site of Sister Blandina.

We knew that this story would make a great movie but we went to the bedside of the sick friend instead of a retelling of the event in a stage coach. While it is true that as some point Billy let a stagecoach pass because Sister Blandina was a passenger, this story will be told in a future episode. Thanks to the Faith And Freedom Readers, we and many others were intoduced to this little known story and we were inspired to make it into a film.

Watch it on Industrious Family Theater now!

May 11, 2026

Trading Scotland for the Wild West

My brother, Becket Bowen, debuted in his first film, Outlaws of Ravenhurstas a child actor when he was 12 years old. He played The Gordon in the beloved story of a farm boy who is taken away from the life he knows to be raised as an earl in Scotland. After this film, he thought that acting was not his thing and went into screen seclusion for a while performing behind the scenes tasks on set. He was recently brought back to the screen when he was cast as Billy the Kid in our Western series, End of the Santa Fe Trail. He was excited to play the part as this genre and character are favorites of his. He plans to continue playing the role in the parts of the series.

You can watch both Outlaws of Ravenhurst and End of the Santa Fe Trail on Industrious Family Theater.

May 08, 2026

From the Theater to an Arabian Nights Party: Our Aladdin (2019) Experience

Back in 2019, Disney's new live-action Aladdin came out. With family tickets at an affordable price at the Palladio, we went and watched it in the theater as a family.

For me, this was an amazing experience.

Up until that point, the only films I had seen in theaters were the third The Pirates of the Caribbean and the first two Hobbits. Aladdin, as you can imagine, was quite a different experience with the colorful costumes and sets as well as the music and sound design that felt in front of me, next to me, and behind me.

We all really enjoyed the film, buying the soundtrack as soon as it was available and greatly anticipating the release of the film on DVD.

Not surprisingly, when Mary and my birthday's rolled around in November, we had an Arabian Nights themed party! Recently Kathleen and I gave the coffee theme party page a makeover by incorporating one of our favorite films and introducing Arabian Nights.

I am happy to present the grand reveal of this page. Check it out!

May 07, 2026

Of Dentist Chairs and Director’s Chairs: Why We’re Still Telling Stories That Matter

At the dentist today I was bringing the hygienist up to speed on all that we are up to on the film side of things. (10 years ago used to talk about Angora rabbits but I have moved further into filmmaking and she has a massage therapy side gig.) She wanted to hear all about the sand dune movie shoot, what it was like to film a movie featuring Billy the Kid, then the conversation turned to "that handsome guy" Christian Bale and her upcoming trip to Hollywood. We talked about all the unseen parts that go into moviemaking from stunt doubles to sound design.

If you have not yet, please check out our new updated mission statement page. It is from the heart and reminds me why we loved this field in the first place. You should check it out but if you don't have time, here are the cliff notes:

In a world where mainstream entertainment often undermines Catholic teaching on faith and morals, Industrious Family is dedicated to reclaiming the art of filmmaking for Christ and His Church.

We help Catholic and other Christian families by producing good stories in film, by sourcing good films for our streaming service, and by reviewing and suggesting good mainstream films.

Since 2015, the team at Industrious Family Films has been honing in on Catholic filmmaking. This journey has taught us many skills such as acting, directing, and storytelling.

Thank you for being part of this adventure and the reason that we do what we love, tell great stories.

May 06, 2026

From Theater Premiere to Farm Life and Film Favorites | New Episode Out Now

With End of the Santa Fe Trail now live on Industrious Family Theater, the Gofers share updates on new gifts, funding progress, and a refreshed studio setup. The conversation moves easily into springtime living—baby goats, snow driving, and even a fox problem. Film lovers will enjoy the chat on classics like The Sound of Music, The Princess Bride, and Ben-Hur, along with thoughts on favorite musicals including a new one for the Gofers - Annie Get Your Gun. It’s a lively mix of film, farm, and behind-the-scenes moments you won’t want to miss.

May 01, 2026

Why Westerns Still Matter

Westerns are more than shootouts—they are moral landscapes.They ask questions about justice, courage and the real measure of men.End of the Santa Fe Trail continues that tradition—while offering a fresh perspective.Watch now on Industrious Family Theater. Unlock full access now.

Apr 28, 2026

Faith on the Frontier

A movie about Billy the Kid told not through the eyes of an outlaw, but the quiet courage of a nun. The American frontier was wild, unpredictable, and unforgiving. Yet not everyone who traveled it carried a six-shooter. End of the Santa Fe Trail is now streaming on Industrious Family Theater. Unlock full access here!

Apr 27, 2026

The Legend of Billy the Kid—Revisited

Billy the Kid’s reputation precedes him—charm, danger, and unpredictability.

But this film presents a different side.

Not denying his past, but showing how he responds when confronted with something unfamiliar: virtue.

Unlock full access now!

Apr 24, 2026

At the Premiere of End of the Santa Fe Trail

Mary and Becket Bowen at the End of the Santa Fe Trail premiere. Watch End of the Santa Fe Trail now on Industrious Family Theater.Unlock full access now!

Apr 24, 2026

Faith-Focused Film Talk | New Episode Out Now

The latest episode of Gofers Get a Grip brings springtime life, and thoughtful film discussion. The boys share time spent gardening and enjoying beautiful weather. Lighter moments include bowling, backflips, and putting a “YeeYee” sign on the mustang. The conversation turns to film with a comparison of The Passion of the Christ and Angel Studios’ The King of Kings, plus reflections on favorite actors.Be sure to like, subscribe, and share the podcast—and thanks for listening!

Apr 23, 2026

A Western Without a Traditional Showdown

Most Westerns build toward a final gunfight.

This one builds toward a conversation.

And in that quiet moment, everything changes.

End of the Santa Fe Trail now streaming on Industrious Family TheaterUnlock full access now!

Apr 23, 2026

Meet the Producers of End of the Santa Fe Trail

Producers Matt and Kathleen Bowen at the End of the Santa Fe Trail premiere. Watch this short film on our streaming platform today. Unlock full access to Industrious Family Theater now!

Apr 22, 2026

A Wild West Story of Faith and Courage

If you’re searching for a family-friendly Western, End of the Santa Fe Trail offers something refreshingly different. Set against the rugged backdrop of the American frontier, this short film tells the true story of Sister Blandina and her unexpected encounter with Billy the Kid. It’s a story of courage, faith, and the kind of strength that doesn’t come from a six-shooter. Perfect for a family movie night, this 10-minute film invites viewers to experience the West through a new lens.

Discover the film and start watching here.

Apr 22, 2026

A Night to Remember at the Blue Fox

End of the Santa Fe Trail actors Matthew Bray, Patrick Bowen, Gabriel Pogue and Becket Bowen at the film's premiere. Watch End of the Santa Fe Trail now on Industrious Family Theater.Unlock full access now!

Apr 21, 2026

When Billy the Kid Meets His Opposite

Billy the Kid embodies everything the frontier admired: confidence, speed, and reputation. Sister Blandina appears to have none of these.Yet in their encounter, something unexpected happens—the dynamic shifts.And the outlaw listens.

End of the Santa Fe Trail now streaming on Industrious Family Theater.

Unlock full access now!

Apr 21, 2026

At the Premiere of End of the Santa Fe Trail

Director Faustina Bowen poses in front of the poster at the End of the Santa Fe Trail premiere. Unlock full access to Industrious Family Theater now!

Apr 20, 2026

A Humble Grave, A Remarkable Life

"I visited Sr. Blandina's grave a few years ago," writes Br. Jonas Houston, "a humble, unimpressive stone, surrounded by hundreds of other identical stones with the remains of her fellow sisters. But underneath that stone I knew lay the body of a woman of great faith whose life had touched many. In this short film, Industrious Family Films brings to life the story of that humble but courageous woman, whose love would touch those of even the hardest hearts."

In "The Life Sketch of Sister Blandina Segale", Sister Therese Martin, S.C., also reflects similarly as Br. Jonas; "It was difficult to believe that the vivacious Sister was being borne by others in the long procession. For so many years she had carried the burden of countless souls...They laid her to rest near Sister Justina where she could lovingly watch over her just as she had ever done in life."

Apr 20, 2026

Stepping Out for the Premiere

Mary and Becket Bowen pose outside the Blue Fox Theater at the End of the Santa Fe Trail premiere. Watch this short film on our streaming platform today. Unlock full access to Industrious Family Theater now!

Apr 17, 2026

The Real Santa Fe Trail: More Than a Trade Route

The Santa Fe Trail wasn’t just a path for commerce—it was a dangerous corridor filled with opportunity and risk. Outlaws, merchants, and missionaries all crossed its path.End of the Santa Fe Trail places viewers right in the middle of this unpredictable world.Now streaming on Industrious Family TheaterUnlock full access now!

Apr 16, 2026

10 Western Movie Reviews Delivered to Your Inbox Every Thursday—Family-Friendly Picks You’ll Love

Western movies are well liked for their action-packed and exciting storylines with cowboys and Indians, shootouts and hangings. But all too often these films are also riddled with profanity and vice.We've been watching a few cowboy movies and are ready to share only the very best with you, the ones without the typical Hollywood nonsense.When you sign up for The Journal, you get these reviews shared over the course of a couple weeks: 10 clean Western films in all.

Apr 16, 2026

Who Was Sister Blandina Segale?

Sister Blandina Segale wasn’t a typical Western figure. Accepting a mission she didn’t choose, she entered a land shaped by lawlessness and fear. Yet her strength came not from force—but from her unshakable faith in God.End of the Santa Fe Trail now streaming on Industrious Family TheaterUnlock full access now!

Apr 15, 2026

Not Every Frontier Hero Carried a Gun

The American frontier was wild, unpredictable, and unforgiving. Yet not everyone who traveled it carried a six-shooter.

End of the Santa Fe Trail - now streaming exclusively on Industrious Family Theater.

Unlock full access now!

Apr 15, 2026

A Different Kind of Billy the Kid Movie

Most films about Billy the Kid focus on gunfights, revenge, and outlaw legend. End of the Santa Fe Trail tells the story through the eyes of Sister Blandina.

This story explores what happens when a quiet, faith-driven woman meets one of the most feared outlaws of the West.

Unlock full access now!

Apr 14, 2026

Get Ready—It All Begins Tomorrow

Tomorrow’s the big day! Grab the popcorn and gather the family—it’s time to experience End of the Santa Fe Trail, only on Industrious Family Theater.

Don’t miss the premiere.

Unlock full access to Industrious Family Theater now!

Apr 14, 2026

The Wait Ends Tomorrow

The wait is almost over. Stream End of the Santa Fe Trail tomorrow. Unlock full access to Industrious Family Theater now!

Apr 13, 2026

Only Two More Days To Go!

Wednesday is the big day! Unlock full access to Industrious Family Theater now!