Don't miss your chance to invest in 'Fabiola'!
Visit our crowd-funding page for our new production, "Fabiola"!
This feed keeps you up-to-date on what's happening at Industrious Family Films - new releases, premieres, articles, merch, film festivals, production updates and tips on how to make your own movies. To subscribe, hover over the orange RSS button. Choose your RSS site and it will open a new window with your RSS site. Or simply bookmark this page and return often.
What does it take to rediscover the sacred? For Christopher Hatfield, it began with a cassock, a faithful priest, and a question: Why has so much changed?
In his moving article "Seeds on the Road to Tradition", Christopher reflects on his experiences as an altar boy, a college student, a military member, and a husband—all while unknowingly being drawn back to the Traditional Roman Rite. From solemn retreats and daily Masses to a Christmas Midnight Mass that coincided with the birth of his daughter, Christopher’s journey is full of unexpected moments that slowly but surely pointed him to the rich beauty of Catholic Tradition.
His story is full of the little “seeds” God plants along the way—seeds that, in time, lead to clarity, conviction, and an eventual home in Tradition. If you’ve ever wrestled with the changes in the Church or longed for something more reverent and rooted, this testimony will speak to your soul.
#TraditionalCatholic #CatholicConversion #TraditionalLatinMass #CatholicFaith
Exciting news—Mary’s full article has just been published on OnePeterFive! This in-depth review of Ben-Hur by Lew Wallace explores more than just plot points. It dives into the timeless themes like vengeance, love, suffering, and how our ideas about God can become distorted through pain and pride.
If you've ever been moved by the classic film or wondered about the deeper layers of the original novel, this reflection is worth the read. Head over to OnePeterFive to read the full piece now!
Sometimes the road home is long, winding, and completely unexpected.
That was certainly the case for Matthew and Gabriella Prescott. Raised Catholic but feeling spiritually adrift, they left everything familiar behind—both physically and spiritually—in search of truth. What they found was far more than they expected.
In "Finding Our Home in Tradition", they share their honest and inspiring journey from confusion to clarity, from compromise to conviction. If you’ve ever felt alone in your faith or questioned what it truly means to be Catholic, their story will resonate deeply.
Read their full testimony and be encouraged by their rediscovery of Tradition.
Sometimes the greatest discoveries happen when you're not looking for them. In his article, author James Fitzhenry shares his powerful and unexpected journey to the Traditional Latin Mass—beginning in the most unlikely of places: a church parking lot during a private investigation.
What started as a routine stakeout in Colton, California, quickly turned into a providential encounter with a priest from the Society of St. Pius X, whose clarity and conviction sparked a transformation that would change the course of Mr. Fitzhenry's spiritual life. This story is one of those rare moments where faith and God’s grace intersect in a way that’s both gripping and truly inspiring.
For those who, like James Fitzhenry, have stumbled upon Tradition, it’s a reminder of how God often leads us down the most unexpected paths to draw us closer to Him. Read James Fitzhenry's full story in his article here.
The Traditionalist movement addresses the ugly painting over the mantelpiece that everyone is too polite to notice: That life is suffering and we will die. One might think this is a morbid and sad reality, and it can be.
But since it is reality, one must face it.
Admittedly, some may dwell on this to the point where they eclipse the joys in life. But if one is sane about it, accepting this reality can lead to making the most good out of it. That is the Traditionalist movement at its best, approaching suffering in such a way that it leads one to Jesus, the greatest joy in life.
No one can escape suffering, but when one accepts its existence it can begin to bear fruit.
Thank you, Aaron Kessler, for this reflection on the Traditionalist movement. This is the movement that is celebrated in our new music video "Trad Seats" which is available to watch now on our YouTube!
We’re back with another book-to-film deep dive—this time featuring one of our all-time family favorites: Charlton Heston’s epic 1959 Ben-Hur. This Golden Age classic never fails to intrigue us, and we finally sat down to give it the serious review it deserves. We also made time to watch the 2016 remake and shared our honest thoughts about how it holds up.
And there’s more! I recently finished reading Lew Wallace’s original novel and included a short summary in this comprehensive page. Keep an eye out—my full review will be published next month on 1Peter5!
Until then, read the full page featuring the film adaptations here!
I’m thrilled to announce a new project: a song called “Trad Seats”—a fun and heartfelt tribute to all the families, individuals, and faithful souls who go the extra mile (literally and spiritually) to attend the Traditional Latin Mass. Whether it's long drives, inconvenient Mass times, or making tough sacrifices to live the faith fully, "Trad Seats" celebrates the beautiful determination of those who choose Tradition.
To mark the release, I’ll also be sharing real conversion stories from friends and fellow Catholics who found their way to the Traditional Mass—stories of grace, struggle, and the surprising paths God uses to draw us closer to Him.
🎶 “Trad Seats” is available to watch on our YouTube channel now!
We were just 10 and 12 years old when my sister and I helped our mom come up with a name for our company. Even at that young age, we had big dreams and a “go get ’em” mindset that we wanted our brand to reflect. That’s why we chose a name inspired by one of our favorite virtues: industriousness.
Playing on the old saying, “Idleness is the devil’s workshop,” we named our new business Industrious Family. It started as a website dedicated to helping families have quality, affordable family fun. The heart of the brand was all about working together and spending time as a family.
Our original logo featured a simple daffodil—chosen not just because it's the first flower to bloom in spring and a traditional symbol of industriousness, but also because it’s personal to us. Dad's family were daffodil farmers in western Washington, so including this flower in our logo felt like a tribute to our heritage.
Now, as we've grown into a film company, we’ve carried that original inspiration with us. The name Industrious still fuels everything we do. We’re currently working with a designer on a fresh new logo, and yes—the daffodil is still very much part of the vision.
We can’t wait to share it with you when it’s ready!
For those of you who have been following us since that simple start in 2014, thank you for your faithful support all of these years. And for those of you who are just starting to find out about us, welcome to the adventure! We hope you continue to support and learn more about Industrious Family as we continue to work toward a more virtuous future.
In honor of the election of His Holiness Pope Leo XIV, all items are 14% off—a perfect opportunity to stock up on Catholic gifts, wholesome movie merchandise, and faith-filled resources for your family.
From saint-inspired apparel and accessories to our family-friendly films like Outlaws of Ravenhurst, Grisly Grisell, and Pelayo, every purchase supports our mission to make entertainment for your family’s soul. But you've got to hurry! Today is the last day of this sale.
If you're looking for a story that combines daring escapes, witty disguises, and an unforgettable romance, The Scarlet Pimpernel delivers in full! This swashbuckling classic—originally a novel by Baroness Orczy—has inspired some truly memorable film adaptations, and we’ve reviewed two of the best: the 1934 black-and-white original and the 1982 version starring Jane Seymour and Anthony Andrews.
In our full article, we break down the highlights, compare how the films stack up to the book, and offer some helpful viewer tips.
🎭 Read now and tell us—who’s your favorite Pimpernel?
#TheScarletPimpernel #ClassicMovies #BooksToMovies #RomanticAdventure #PeriodDrama #JaneSeymour #AnthonyAndrews #FilmReview #HistoricalDrama #BaronessOrczy #SwashbucklingRomance #LiteraryAdaptation #OldHollywood #1980sMovies #BlackAndWhiteFilms #MovieRecommendations #FaithAndFilm #GoodRomanticMovies
At Industrious Family Films, every order is more than just a transaction — it’s a process of bringing you positive entertainment. That’s why we take such care in getting each DVD ready to ship. Whether you’re gifting one of our films to a friend or adding it to your family movie night collection, we personally get every DVD ready to ship.
In this short video, you’ll see Faustina prepare a DVD — a simple task, maybe, but one filled with joy. We’re not just packing a product; we’re sending out a story crafted with virtue.
Your support helps us keep making and sharing these films. Thank you for being part of this mission — one DVD, one family, one story at a time.
Watch the video, share with a friend, and don’t forget tocheck out our store for more entertainment for your family's soul!
Mother’s Day is the perfect time to celebrate the women who make life great. This year, why not plan a garden themed party that brings everyone together with flowers, laughter, and delicious homemade treats? Whether you’re honoring your mom, inviting a group of friends, or combining it with a literature-themed gathering, this kind of party invites elegance and fun all in one.
Our updated Garden Themed Party guide is packed with practical ideas to help you plan a memorable event. You’ll find menu suggestions, game ideas, and decorating tips—all centered around simplicity, hospitality, and a love for beauty. Mother’s Day is about honoring the women in our lives—and what better way than gathering in a flower-filled yard with music, laughter, and homemade pie?
Ready to plan your own? Visit the full Garden Themed Party page for all the details!
We’re thrilled to share that our very own directors, Mary and Faustina, sat down yesterday morning for a heartfelt conversation on The Chat Session podcast, hosted by Rodney Allen Rippy and Nina on ThisWay Network.
In this engaging episode, we talk all things Industrious Family Films—from our humble beginnings and Christ-centered mission to the exciting journey of bringing Fabiola to life. You’ll get to hear firsthand how our productions are rooted in faith, family, and storytelling that uplifts and inspires.
We also shared a behind-the-scenes look at how we got started, the challenges and triumphs along the way, and what it's like building a faith-based film team from the ground up. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just discovering us, this conversation is a great way to get to know the heart behind our work.
🎧 Missed it live? No worries! You can now catch the full replay of the episode:
We’re so grateful to Rodney and Nina for having us on and giving us the opportunity to share our story. Tune in, be encouraged, and don’t forget to share the episode with friends and family who love faith-filled entertainment!
Today’s the day! We’re excited to announce the release of four brand-new films on Industrious Family Theater, each offering something fresh and uplifting for your family to enjoy.
🎬 Watching Daisy – From Aidan Jones, the director of Home Army, comes a fun and creative short film with a superhero twist. A down-on-her-luck heroine faces her greatest challenge yet: babysitting. Full of heart and humor, this film is sure to entertain.
🕊️ On the Streets – Directed by Damian Chlanda, this short documentary tells the story of Jeff Kenny, a man who lives out the corporal works of mercy by serving the homeless in Chicago. In just six minutes, you’ll be inspired by his humble compassion and selfless love.
🎨 The Beauty of Sacred Art – Another documentary from Damian Chlanda, this reflective short features two artists sharing how sacred art has shaped their faith and deepened their relationship with God. It’s a brief but powerful tribute to the role beauty plays in our spiritual lives.
💪 Fit Shepherds – This 24-minute documentary directed by Francis Thomas follows a group of Catholic men who pray, train, and live out their faith through strength and brotherhood. It’s a bold look at discipline, purpose, and what it means to suffer well.
These titles are available now on Industrious Family Theater. For just $12 a year, you’ll gain access to our full library of wholesome, faith-driven films that your whole family can enjoy.
Don't miss these new releases. Subscribe today and join our growing community of families seeking authentic Catholic entertainment!
👉 Subscribe Now to start watching!
If you’ve been following the buzz around Angel Studios’ newest release, The King of Kings, you know it’s been drawing packed theaters as families are showing up in droves, eager for Christian entertainment.
We were among those families. And after seeing the film, we had a lot to say.
That’s why we’ve written an exclusive, in-depth review of The King of Kings—and we’re offering it only to our email subscribers.
Our review takes a deep dive into:
As a subscriber, you’ll also get:
What does it mean to suffer well—and to do so with strength, faith, and friendship? Fit Shepherds, a new documentary, is going to be released this May on Industrious Family Theater, and it explores those very questions.
Directed by Francis Thomas and written by Joseph Thomas, Fit Shepherds is a real-life story about Catholic men who are building more than muscle. They’re building character, community, and a deeper relationship with Christ. This 24-minute film invites viewers to join a journey that’s about more than just fitness—it's about learning how to suffer well, live with purpose, and grow stronger in faith.
Whether you're a Catholic father, young man, or just someone searching for meaning in struggle, Fit Shepherds offers a bold and encouraging witness to living faith in every part of life.
Don’t miss this inspiring release on Industrious Family Theater this May.
Last Sunday, Mary and I had a great time visiting our old parish in California! Not only did this trip afford us the chance to catch up with the cast members from our previous films, but we were also able to give a presentation on Fabiola in an attempt to gain a few investors.
It was wonderful to see all of the people who helped us make Outlaws of Ravenhurst, Max & Carlota, and Grisly Grisell and see where they are in their lives and chosen paths. Some of our old cast and crew members are now getting married, having children of their own, joining the police force, and studying music at JPII college. Time definitely marches on!
Recently we rewatched some of those old films and still find they hold a charm of their own. If you have been following us for a while and seen all of them, I would encourage you to watch them again.
Just joined the fan club? All of our old movies are available to stream now on Industrious Family Theater. Plus we have new releases coming up this weekend, so subscribe now to watch the old gems and new content!
As part of our upcoming May releases, Industrious Family Theater is happy to present On The Streets, a short documentary that captures what authentic Catholic charity looks like in action.
In just six minutes, On The Streets introduces viewers to Jeff Kenny, a man who dedicates his life to serving the homeless in Chicago. Directed by Damian Chlanda who also directed The Beauty of Sacred Art (also releasing on Friday!), this documentary gives a raw, honest, and inspiring look at one man’s mission to bring dignity, food, and kindness to the homeless in the streets.
Despite his own challenges, Jeff’s unwavering compassion reaches hundreds—and his example moves many others to follow in his footsteps by giving alms and noticing those in need around them.
On The Streets is releasing this May on Industrious Family Theater. Don’t miss this portrait of charity as Jeff fulfills the corporal works of mercy.
Subscribe to Industrious Family Theater now to catch On The Streets when it releases this Friday!
Get ready for a fun and fresh new short film—Watching Daisy—releasing tomorrow on Industrious Family Theater!
Written and directed by Aidan Jones, the filmmaker behind Home Army, The EDEN Project and The Tavern this new film offers a playful twist on the superhero genre. In Watching Daisy, a down-on-her-luck superhero faces her greatest challenge yet: babysitting duty.
Starring Veronica Jones, Marciana Jones, and John Busse, this 17-minute short film combines humor, heart, and a touch of action to create an entertaining story the whole family can enjoy.
If you enjoyed Home Army, you won't want to miss this lighthearted new adventure from the same director.
Subscribe today to experience the fun—only on Industrious Family Theater!
If you love Bible stories and are always looking for high-quality movies that bring Scripture to life, you’ll love our newest page completely based on movies about the Bible!
Bible stories can sometimes feel distant from our everyday lives, but the right film can make them feel real, relatable, and powerful. In this collection, we highlight some of the best movies that dive into the personalities, struggles, and faith of biblical figures — not just retelling the stories, but truly exploring the human side of them.
We cover classics like The Ten Commandments, action-packed retellings like Samson, and the heartfelt family favorites like The Book of Esther from PureFlix. Plus, we share thoughts on newer series like The Chosen and fun creative projects like The Bible: A Brickfilm!
👉 Check out the full list and find your next favorite movie about the Bible!
On Holy Saturday, we found ourselves at the local theater watching The King of Kings, Angel Studios’ latest release. Though we weren’t overly excited at first, the kids were determined—digging through every drawer and pocket to scrape together ticket money.
What we didn’t expect was a theater packed with families—grandparents, babies, and everyone in between. We laughed, cried, and even shared laps when things got intense. It stood in stark contrast to the quiet, nearly empty screenings of Disney’s Snow White remake that I had heard about happening elsewhere.
That night made something clear: families are shifting their loyalty. Studios like Angel are telling the stories people want—stories that uplift and inspire.
Read my full musings on the topic here.
Continue reading "What a Theater Full of Families Taught Me on Holy Saturday"
Today, we’d like to celebrate Aaron Kessler, who has been an incredible part of our journey. We first met Aaron many years ago on a social media platform called MeWe. Back then, Aaron had started a small filmmaking group, which included himself, Jim Morlino, and us, Industrious Family.
This was an impersonal and surface relationship where we would post what we were up to and Aaron would post what he was musing on. But we never got much further than that.
Years later, Laura Ruth asked us if we knew a guy named Aaron Kessler. She mentioned that he was now a film colorist and wanted to volunteer his talent to color the Fabiola Pilot scene. We were intrigued but figured it couldn’t be the same Aaron. A quick check on LinkedIn confirmed it—it was indeed the same person!
Since reconnecting, Aaron has become an invaluable friend. Not only did he color the Fabiola Prison Scene, but he’s also worked his magic on our last two Christmas shorts.
Today, Aaron plays a key role as our branding consultant. He helps us shape and refine our identity through the art of branding. We can’t wait to see where this collaboration takes us and what surprises Aaron has in store for the future.
Thank you, Aaron, for everything you do!
In our upcoming release, we’re excited to release a new short documentary to Industrious Family Theater—The Beauty of Sacred Art. In just eight minutes, this piece explores the intersection of faith, creativity, and the divine through the eyes of two gifted artists.
Directed by Damian Chlanda and featuring artists Sarah Crow and Jared Seff, The Beauty of Sacred Art is a testimony to the transformative power of beauty. Both artists share how their work with sacred imagery has shaped not only their craft, but also their personal faith and relationship with God. Through their experiences, viewers are reminded that art isn’t just something to look at—it’s something that can lead us closer to truth, goodness, and the sacred.
Whether you’re an artist yourself or simply someone who appreciates the role beauty plays in the spiritual life, this short film will inspire and uplift you. Mark your calendars—The Beauty of Sacred Art premieres next weekend on Industrious Family Theater.
Stay tuned, and prepare to see how faith and artistry meet in a celebration of sacred beauty.
Love faith-filled films that inspire and uplift? Join our email list and receive exclusive reviews of Christian and Catholic movies being made today—including standout titles from Angel Studios.
When you subscribe, you’ll get immediate access to our subscriber-only review of The King of Kings—a thoughtful look at this moving portrayal of Christ’s life. We dive into its spiritual depth, artistic merit, and how it aligns with Catholic values.
But that’s just the beginning.
Subscribers also receive behind-the-scenes glimpses into our own Catholic film productions. From concept to camera, you’ll get a closer look at how we bring our stories to life. Plus, we send out weekly updates with new reviews, production news, and exclusive insights.
As a bonus, you’ll be the first to read our ongoing reviews of Angel Studios’ latest films—delivered straight to your inbox, before they’re shared publicly.
📩 Sign up now to get your exclusive The King of Kings review and join our growing community of film lovers.
Celebrate stories that inspire. Support cinema that uplifts. Subscribe today.
It might seem like an odd topic of conversation, but when someone suggested execution by firing squad as the "noblest way to go," it got us thinking about the historical figures who met their end that way—and made it count.
From emperors to poets, priests to generals, these six men didn't just face death—they made it their last moments worth it. Whether shouting “Viva Cristo Rey!” like Father Miguel Pro, marrying their sweetheart just hours before execution like Joseph Mary Plunkett, or giving the order to fire like General François de Charette, each showed extraordinary courage in the face of the ultimate sacrifice.
Even the tragic Romanov family—executed in secret—found a shred of nobility by facing their fate together.
These stories prove that even in darkness, honor and faith can shine brightly.
👉 Read the full article here: Discover 6 Noble Heroes Who Faced Execution By Firing Squad
There’s something truly fascinating about the Romans and their place in history. Their civilization lasted for centuries, full of triumph, innovation, and eventually, a dramatic fall that still captivates the imagination today. We've gathered a collection of movies about Roman history that we have enjoyed, and we’re excited to share them with you!
Each of these movies offers a unique glimpse into the Roman world — from epic battles and political drama to the quiet heroism of early Christians. Whether you’re a history buff, a movie lover, or just looking for something new and meaningful to watch, you’ll find something to love in these Roman-themed films.
Click here to read our full reviews and see which one you want to watch first! Let’s step into the sandals of history together!
You don't want to miss our latest interview with actor Kaleb McConner. In this in-depth conversation, Kaleb sits down with Ryan Mahaney to share his journey to the screen, his insights on the indie film world, and his excitement of working on the upcoming historical drama, FABIOLA.
Kaleb opens up about how he landed the role of Fulvius as well as gives us a sneak peek at the scene he’s most excited to film, and names the cast member he’s especially looking forward to collaborating with on set.
Beyond the specifics of FABIOLA, Kaleb reflects on the broader world of independent filmmaking and how it differs from Hollywood productions. His passion for authentic storytelling and his belief in the power of meaningful roles shines through every moment of this candid conversation.
Whether you're a longtime supporter of faith-based films or an aspiring actor looking for inspiration, this episode offers a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the making of FABIOLA—and the people who are bringing it to life.
🎧 Tune in now for an inspiring conversation about acting, filmmaking, and the heart behind FABIOLA.
#FabiolaFilm #KalebMcConnor #CatholicCinema #IndieFilm #FaithBasedFilm #BehindTheScenes #ActingPodcast #ActorInterview #FilmIndustry #CatholicMovies #Fulvius #FabiolaCast #IndieVsHollywood #AuditionStory #PodcastEpisode #AudioOnlyPodcast
At Industrious Family Films, we believe that storytelling has the power to shape souls. In a world where the mainstream media often promotes vice, confusion, and despair, we have taken it upon ourselves to reclaim the art of filmmaking for Christ and His Church.
Founded in 2017 with a bold vision, our mission is clear: we aim to populate the movie industry with good, Catholic films that inspire virtue and ignite a love for truth and beauty. Our films are designed not just to entertain, but to edify, to remind families of the virtues that have stood the test of time—heroism, sacrificial love, and eternal truths.
The current cultural landscape may seem overwhelming, as Hollywood continues to churn out content filled with a general disregard for morality. But we stand firm in our resolve to offer an alternative—a cinematic experience grounded in Catholic values. Our films are for fathers seeking entertainment they can trust, for families yearning for wholesome stories, and for anyone who believes that art should uplift, not degrade.
Our slogan says it all: Entertainment for Your Family's Soul.
Thanks to everyone who contributed to our Fabiola Lenten campaign! So far we have raised $3,694 in crowdfunding. Please know that you have been in our prayers according to the promised spiritual bouquets for your contribution amount.
Fabiola is more than just a film. It is a tribute to all the early Church martyrs who gave their lives for the conversion of the empire and the known world. From their sacrifice, united to that of Christ's on Calvary, arose the greatest Christian civilization of all times.
One of my favorite lines from the Fabiola book is when St. Sebastian explains to Pancratius how he envisions the conversion of Rome. He likens it to the sunrise as seen from a high mountain above Rome. He speaks of how everything starts in darkness and, as the sun rises, each building catches its light and reflects it back. Soon all of Rome is bathed in the light. He sees this as a foreshadowing of Rome's conversion when the true Light enters the city.
Pancratius responds, "How beautiful will it then be to behold the shades retiring, and each moment one and another of the charms, as yet concealed, of our holy faith and worship starting into light, till the imperial city itself shines forth a holy type of the city of God."
Didn't get an opportunity to contribute during our Lenten campaign? Don't worry! You still have a chance to become a part of telling the Fabiola story on screen. Give now!
Fabiola, our upcoming film, is much more than a historical drama—it’s a story rooted in the themes of Easter: conversion, sacrifice, and fresh starts. The film draws from Cardinal Wiseman’s novel, highlighting the transformation of the Roman Empire from a pagan society to a Christian one under Constantine. Just as Christians rise from the waters of Baptism, Rome undergoes its own rebirth, emerging from darkness into the light of faith.
In Fabiola, we witness how key characters—like Sts. Sebastian, Pancratius, and Agnes—live their lives in a corrupt world, shining as beacons of light amidst the darkness. Their unwavering faith, in the face of persecution, symbolizes the hope and victory that Easter brings to all Christians. The film’s visual journey begins in the shadows of pagan rituals and underground catacombs, but it ends in the bright, open spaces of Rome’s new Christian identity, with two pivotal characters welcomed into the Church on Easter Sunday.
Fabiola reminds us that no power on earth can subdue Christ’s victory over death, and it’s a beautiful reflection of Easter’s significance. To explore more about this Easter connection,👉 read the full article. Your support will help us bring this powerful story of conversion and resurrection to life. Consider contributing to the Fabiola project today!
By becoming an Industrious Family Films Sponsor you directly support the movement which is rebuilding Christian art.
I'd like to advertise with Industrious Family.
An aid for families encouraging the reconstruction of the social fabric by sparking interest in Christian art and culture. Find beautiful novels, films, music, food and customs.
Jun 06, 25 03:44 PM
Jun 04, 25 01:29 PM
Jun 03, 25 11:46 AM