Fifteen years ago, Dallas Jenkins stepped onto the set of a low-budget, faith-based film with a big dream and an all-star cast. Determined to capture the journey, Jenkins documented the highs, the lows, and the unforgettable moments behind the making of “What If...”—an uplifting film that became a faith-filled classic.
Now, for the first time ever, watch this never-seen-before behind-the-scenes footage, “Director’s Diaries,” and witness how this inspiring film came to life.
“‘What If...’' was my first project where I unashamedly portrayed the importance of faith and surrender to God. And even back then, I wanted to connect with the viewer by showing behind the curtain how these stories get made,” Jenkins told The Epoch Times about his decision to make the diaries. “This director’s diary is definitely a trip down memory lane.”
Jenkins, who has since become an international powerhouse as the creator, director, co-writer and executive producer of “The Chosen,” the first multi-season series about the life of Jesus of Nazareth, is stepping back in time to celebrate the success of “What If” with a special two-night anniversary theatrical return on Aug. 5 and Aug. 7.
In a recent interview with The Epoch Times, the movie’s leading man, Kevin Sorbo (who plays Ben Walker) described it as “‘It’s a Wonderful Life” in reverse.”
For both Sorbo and Jenkins, “What If...” was the beginning of their commitment to faith driven projects.
Sorbo said he is humbled by the fans he meets when he’s out and about. “I get recognized every day,” he said. “I get stopped constantly. People walk up and they say, ‘Keep making the movies you’re making.’”
The anniversary event will feature brand new bonus content only available in theaters, including an exclusive cast reunion and roundtable hosted by Jenkins. This never-before-seen segment brings cast members Sorbo, Kristy Swanson, John Ratzenberger and Jenkins’ longtime collaborator and producer Michael Scott.
It’s a big moment for Jenkins, who will celebrate his 50th birthday on July 25. In addition to the “What If...” anniversary event, the fifth season of “The Chosen: Last Supper” will premiere in three parts in theaters March 28, April 4 and April 11.
Like “What If...” “The Chosen” was a leap of faith for the Illinois-born Jenkins, who with $11 million raised from donors, turned a small pilot into the most-translated series ever.
It’s not just his professional life that is thriving, Jenkins and his wife Amanda, who he met while attending the University of Northwestern-St. Paul, celebrated their 27th wedding anniversary on June 13. The couple have four children—sons Sam and Max and daughters Maya and Elle. Updates from Jenkins’ social media sites celebrate his children’s achievements including Sam’s Liberty University graduation and Maya’s recent engagement.
Sorbo also celebrated his 27th wedding anniversary on Jan 5. He and wife, actress Sam Sorbo have three children—sons Braeden and Shane, who are following in their dad’s actor footsteps, and daughter Octavia.
Neither Sorbo nor Jenkins need a “What If...” do-over to recreate their best life. Once they each made up their mind to choose the path that followed their faith, they began living it.
