AFFIRM FILMS UNVEILS POSTER AND FIRST LOOK AT THE KENDRICK BROTHERS’ NEW FILM, ‘FLYWHEEL: IGNITION OF THE SOUL’
‘HEART OF’ FEATURETTE OFFERS A FIRST LOOK INSIDE THE FAITH, FILMMAKING, AND VISION BEHIND THE BRAZILIAN REIMAGINING
CULVER CITY, Calif. (June 16, 2026) – Sony Pictures’ AFFIRM Films unveiled the official key art and a brand-new ‘heart of’ featurette for Flywheel: Ignition of the Soul, the highly anticipated Brazilian remake of the beloved Kendrick Brothers debut film. The film opens exclusively in US theatres nationwide on October 16, 2026.
Watch the ‘heart of’ featurette here.
The featurette offers audiences a special look inside the film’s remarkable origin: how the Kendrick Brothers partnered with emerging local filmmakers in Brazil and launched a production in record time – fueled by a shared belief that faith-driven storytelling can transcend borders, cultures, and languages. The featurette displays on-the-ground footage from production in Rio de Janeiro, candid reflections from the cast and filmmakers, and a firsthand account of the vision that brought this project to life.
“Flywheel was the first story God gave us as filmmakers, so seeing it reimagined through the talent and vision of Brazilian filmmakers has been incredibly special,” said Alex Kendrick. “While this version brings a fresh cultural perspective and cinematic scale, its message of redemption and transformation remains timeless.”
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Rio de Janeiro, Flywheel: Ignition of the Soul follows Noah Silva, a charismatic used-car salesman whose “do whatever it takes” approach to business and life begins to unravel at home and at work. After a series of wake-up calls, Noah is forced to confront the cost of his choices and begins a deeply personal journey to restore his integrity while trying to win back the hearts of his wife and son.
The remake was born out of the Kendrick Brothers’ growing connection to Brazil following the massive success of The Forge, which opened at #1 in the Brazilian market in 2024. During a promotional tour across the country, the filmmakers connected with churches, pastors, and fellow filmmakers who shared a desire for locally rooted, faith-driven stories crafted with cinematic excellence.
“This new film is the result of one of our biggest steps of faith. Through a lot of prayers and unexpected Brazilian partnerships, we’ve seen a string of miracles take place that has resulted in a beautiful new movie that will bless international audiences,” said Stephen Kendrick. “Our hope is that it points people to the hope and freedom found in a relationship with Christ and inspires a new generation of filmmakers to utilize their gifts for God’s glory.”
The film stars Mario Bregieira, Pérola Faria, Guilherme Tavares, Felipe Folgosi, Adriano Canindé, Elizeu Rodrigues, with Alex Kendrick. Written by Alex Kendrick and directed by Alessandro Barros, the film will be dubbed and subtitled in English for the US theatrical release on October 16, 2026.
The film is produced by Mark Miller, Daniel Friesen, and Wiltonauar Moura with executive producers Alex Kendrick, Stephen Kendrick, Jim McBride, and Ygor Siqueira.
Follow us on Facebook/Instagram/TikTok at @FlywheeltheMovie or visit flywheelignitionofthesoulmovie.com.
About AFFIRM Films
Launched in 2007, AFFIRM Films is a leading producer and distributor of faith-based and inspirational entertainment, generating more than $720 million at the global box office with films including Soul Surfer, War Room, Risen, The Star, Heaven Is for Real, Miracles from Heaven, Overcomer, Courageous, Paul, Apostle of Christ, and A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood (with TriStar Pictures) Big George Foreman (with Columbia Pictures) and the Christmas musical Journey to Bethlehem (2023). Recent releases include the Kendrick Brothers’ The Forge (2024) and Soul on Fire (2025), based on John O’Leary’s bestselling memoir.
AFFIRM produces, acquires, and markets uplifting content for audiences worldwide across its film, television, and originals divisions. AFFIRM Films is part of Sony Pictures Entertainment, a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Group Corporation.
Stay updated at www.affirmfilmsupdates.com and follow @AFFIRMFilms on social media.
About Kendrick Brothers Productions
Kendrick Brothers Productions is the company of brothers Alex, Stephen, and Shannon Kendrick that exists to honor God and share the truth and love of Jesus Christ through movies, books, and curriculum. By blending engaging stories with doctrinal integrity, the Kendricks seek to encourage and inspire audiences with resources that positively impact their lives and strengthen their faith, families, and personal relationships.