When Paula Patton’s identify is on a challenge, you already comprehend it’s going to deliver some soul. From Leaping the Broom to Baggage Declare, she’s lengthy been a radiant presence on-screen. However in her new movie Discovering Religion, premiering in theaters June 16–17 by way of Fathom Occasions, Paula digs deeper—into grief, therapeutic, and finally, redemption.
The movie follows Religion Mitchell, a spouse and mom whose life is upended by a devastating loss. As she spirals into despair, it’s the love of household, mates, and God that slowly leads her again to gentle. And for Paula, this story wasn’t only a function—it was private.
“It connected to a time in my life that I could really relate to,” she says. “That feeling of having lost so much and feeling like so much pain, and not knowing how to deal with the pain… and numbing out to do that.”
A Story That Hit Near Residence
Having been sober for seven years, Paula says the emotional territory was acquainted. However greater than something, it introduced her nearer to a deeper reality.
“Once you give [the numbing] up, you have to walk in the desert alone… and that’s when I truly found faith in God.”
Turning Ache Into Function
Whereas the movie touches on loss and habit, Discovering Religion finally lives as much as its title. Paula describes the appearing course of as cathartic—and one she was lastly prepared for.
“Art became healing,” she says. “That was the biggest challenge of all… but it was a challenge I wanted.”
Extra Than an Inspirational Thriller
Discovering Religion is described as an “inspirational thriller,” with layered tones of romance, suspense, and religious reflection. Paula credit that dynamic mix to writer-director LazRael Lison.
“That’s what I love about Finding Faith,” she explains. “Yes, she goes on this journey, but there’s other storylines happening that help it stay entertaining.”
On-Set Magic with Loretta Devine
With a forged stacked with phenomnal expertise—Loretta Devine, Keith David, Stephen Bishop—it’s no shock that the movie additionally got here alive by way of unscripted moments.
“We did this kitchen scene… and Loretta changed it,” Paula shares. “She wouldn’t leave. I had to change my dance and figure out how to work with it, and it took on this whole other layer. I’m forever grateful.”
Religion When It Feels Like Evening
The movie leans on the biblical verse: “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.” Paula says that reminder is one thing she’s lived.
“When you’re feeling so anxious, and you look out in the distance and see nothing there… that’s when you have to trust God’s timing.”
Divine Timing Behind the Scenes
Paula didn’t simply star within the movie—she produced it by way of her firm, Third Eye Productions. And the best way the chance got here to her? Nothing wanting divine.
“I said, ‘Just for one week, believe everything’s going to be perfect,’” she recollects. “That same day, my friend Charles called and said, ‘I have a film for you. It’s called Finding Faith.’ I thought I was going to throw the phone down.”
What’s Subsequent for Paula Patton?
When requested a couple of dream function, Paula didn’t identify a style or a personality. Her focus now could be on legacy—and light-weight.
“I want to make sure I keep making art that entertains people, but also has hope… That it has a bright light at the end to get us through this journey here on Earth.”
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Function picture by Lev Radin/ Shutterstock
