Eduardo Verástegui, the producer and actor behind ‘Sound of Freedom,’ recently unveiled an astonishing revelation about The Walt Disney Company’s actions.
Despite acquiring the film’s rights during the Fox purchase, Disney chose to pass on the project. However, their actions did not end there, as they demanded payment from Verástegui after shelving the film.
In an interview with Breitbart News, Verástegui shed light on the obstacles faced in getting ‘Sound of Freedom’ to theaters.
He revealed that after completing the film nearly four years ago, he had struck a promising deal with Fox Latin America, encompassing not just a movie but also a documentary and a TV series.
Disney’s Acquisition and Unexpected Turn for “Sound of Freedom”
The situation took an unforeseen turn when Disney acquired Fox, and Verástegui found himself in a tough spot. The film that had been so warmly received by Fox was now deemed unsuitable for Disney.
Despite requesting his film back, Verástegui was shocked when Disney demanded payment from him to cover previous debts owed to Fox.
Undeterred, Verástegui engaged in a year-long negotiation with Disney, seeking to reclaim his film and clarify outstanding financial matters. Despite the setback, he remained determined to share the film’s powerful message with the world, not willing to give up on its potential impact.
With Disney passing on the film, Verástegui approached major studios like Netflix and Amazon in search of a new distribution deal.
Unfortunately, his efforts met with disappointment as these studios turned down the opportunity, leaving him frustrated and uncertain about the film’s future.
Hope arrived in the form of Angel Studios, a company with a strong track record, responsible for ‘The Chosen.’
Verástegui found a kindred spirit in this disruptive and passionate studio, and within five days, they struck a deal to bring ‘Sound of Freedom’ back to life.
Despite Disney’s decision to pass on the film, ‘Sound of Freedom’ found its way to theaters through Angel Studios.
The film’s profound impact on audiences was evident as it surpassed Disney’s ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny’ at the box office, grossing an impressive $100.9 million domestically.
Unlike the declining revenues of ‘Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,’ ‘Sound of Freedom’ experienced an upward trajectory in its second weekend, a clear indication of its compelling story resonating with moviegoers.
Eduardo Verástegui’s journey to bring ‘Sound of Freedom’ to theaters was undoubtedly a rollercoaster ride.
However, his unwavering determination and partnership with Angel Studios ultimately proved victorious, ensuring that the film’s powerful message about saving lives would reach audiences worldwide.
The story of ‘Sound of Freedom’ serves as a testament to the resilience of filmmakers who are committed to sharing stories that matter. Despite facing hurdles and rejection, Verástegui’s dedication to the film’s purpose persevered.
