Throwing a curveball at the viewer, baseball drama Milltown Pride sets the story of the prodigal son in the sports world. The Bob Jones University feature-length film follows Will Wright as he leaves his privileged background to pursue a baseball career by joining a local textile-mill team. His journey includes an encounter with real-life evangelist Billy Sunday, himself a former baseball star, played by scriptwriter David Burke.
Filming took place in four states, including at a baseball field with stands dating back to the time period. Cast and crew were largely drawn from the faculty and student body, though several hundred extras from the local community were drafted in for some scenes.
With its solid story, the film should encourage “anyone who knows someone who has lost his or her way, who has lost their focus on God,” producer Darren Lawson says. “There is hope, just by turning back to God.”
