SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Pastor Samuel Rodriguez is launching BeLight Productions, the first film production company spearheaded by a Latino pastor. A natural extension of Rodriguez’s existing ministry and born out of his extensive experience in the film and media industry, BeLight Productions will tell compelling stories of truth and courage for God’s glory.
One of the first film projects under the new production company is being developed with Mark Williams, producer of “The Accountant” films and creator of “Ozark.” It tells the extraordinary true story of Hal Donaldson — a man who overcame profound adversity and went on to found one of the largest faith-based, non-profit disaster-relief organizations in the world. It is a story of resilience, redemption, compassion, and global impact, and it embodies everything BeLight Productions exists to amplify.
“Film is one of the most powerful avenues for impact and cultural change,” said Pastor. Rodriguez, president of the NHCLC and founder of BeLight Productions. “Right now, our world needs to be reminded of the truth and beauty of the Gospel and inspired to live in alignment with that truth. That is the goal for BeLight Productions. Through excellent movies, we want to join God in the work He is already doing to bring the world to Himself.”
Rodriguez will also serve as Executive Producer on the feature film “FETTERED,” directed by Dimas Salaberrios. This project further underscores BeLight’s commitment to courageous storytelling that confronts darkness while illuminating hope.
Two of Rodriguez’s prior films, “Flamin’ Hot” (2023) and “Breakthrough” (2019), won Dove Awards for best film of the year. Both films were nominated for Academy Awards for original song, making Rodriguez the first Latino pastor to have served as producer for two films nominated for Academy Awards.
“I congratulate Pastor Sam on the launch of his new production company,” said Richard Montañez, writer and inspiration behind “FLAMIN HOT.” “He was the driving spiritual force behind our major motion picture ‘FLAMIN HOT’ by Disney Studios and also served as executive producer of the film. I am excited to see what awesome, positive and uplifting ideas he’s gonna bring to the big screen. His renowned global message of hope in Christ is now about to enter an arena he is definitely built for.”
BeLight Productions will bring together a dedicated team committed to powerful storytelling and cinematic excellence. Under Rodriguez’s leadership, the production company will serve as a beacon of hope by elevating the truth of the Gospel and inspiring people of faith to live the way God desires them to.
“Working with Pastor Sam Rodriguez on ‘Carman: The Movie’ has been nothing short of electrifying,” said Jack Vale, a writer for “Carman.” “Sam carries Carman’s mission in his bones. His knowledge of Carman’s life, ministry, and music is so deep that every conversation blew my mind. Sam is bold, assertive and unstoppable, yet he listens with a pastor’s heart. He’s made it clear that Carman helped shape the evangelist he is today, and once I saw that, it was obvious: Sam had to be part of this film. Calling it a blessing doesn’t come close. Sam is a powerhouse, and collaborating with him has elevated this project in ways I can’t even begin to describe.”
The idea for BeLight Productions was born when Rodriguez was inspired to bring the remarkable true story of John Smith to the screen. He found a willing partner in DeVon Franklin, whose influence helped bring the story to life in the film “Breakthrough.” Rodriguez was similarly inspired by Richard Montañez’s story, which became the hit film “Flamin’ Hot.”
“Pastor Sam Rodriguez is a dynamic leader committed to using creativity to reach people with the Gospel,” said Michael Landon Jr, who Rodriguez worked with on “The Dream King.” “I’ve seen that firsthand working with him on ‘The Dream King’ and I am confident that same passion and tenacity in storytelling will continue to shine through BeLight Productions. The film industry is in desperate need of films that inspire hope and speak truth, and BeLight Productions is stepping in to meet that need.”
• “The Dream King” (Upcoming)
• “Carmen” (Upcoming)
• “The Dream” (Upcoming)
• “Ruach” (Upcoming)
• “Leaving Memphis” (Upcoming)
“Working with Reverend Rodriguez has been one of those rare experiences that changes you—not just creatively, but personally,” said Dan Luxenberg, producer on “Leaving Memphis.” “He brings a sense of purpose and light into every room, every conversation, every frame. Beyond being a collaborator, he’s been a friend and a teacher—someone whose faith and vision remind you why we create in the first place”
Press Release Written By: JDA Worldwide