Grassroots Indie Film Reveals Supernatural Phenomenon and Debuts on TV Worldwide October 16th on OWN SEE TRAILER BELOW
BROOKLYN, N.Y., Sept. 29, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — The provocative documentary film “Wake Up” has been selected for its world television debut on Oprah Winfrey’s OWN Network launch of “Super Soul Sunday,” a new three-hour Sunday morning programming block scheduled to premiere Sunday, October 16 (8 a.m. – 11 a.m. ET/PT).
“Wake Up” (http://www.wakeupthefilm.com) tells the true story of Jonas Elrod, an average guy who one day suddenly began seeing and hearing angels, demons, auras and ghosts all around him. Perplexed by his new ability to experience the supernatural, he sets out on a soul-seeking journey to find answers to his mystifying situation. From physicians, religious teachers, scientists to mystics, spiritual healers and more,
he humbly inquires “Why me?” He also fears being ostracized by his own God-fearing, southern Christian family, while failing to see the “gift” of his newfound ability, that even his hometown preacher affirms could quite possibly be “God’s way of communicating with him.”
Throughout the film, Jonas’ loving yet doubting girlfriend Mara supports him but questions his experiences along the way. Her skepticism leads to her own profound awakening we witness firsthand. The film culminates in the realization that Jonas’s “special ability” is the inspiration for him to discover who he really is and get more out of life. Jonas’ captivating journey to explore larger truths about the universe and everyone in it reveals how all of us can search inward for our own peace and happiness. It’s an invitation to accept that there is more to this life than meets the eye.
“Wake Up is more than just a movie; it’s become a movement. We’ve done screenings across the country and people everywhere are telling us how this film has inspired them to see the spiritual and miraculous in everyday life,” shares Jonas. He adds, “I am thrilled that Oprah has chosen to feature our film on her new Super Soul Sunday series; I believe and hope it will touch many lives.”
In addition to the documentary, shown in its entirety, Oprah interviews Jonas and talks to Mara about what it’s like to live with Jonas as he learns to accept his uncanny “gift.” The broadcast will be followed by a live conversation, discussion at http://www.oprah.com/supersoulsunday, as well as a LIVE twitter discussion with Jonas and Mara at @wakeupthefilm. “Wake Up” is also available on DVD and VOD at http://www.wakeupthefilm.com and is distributed by Beyond Words.
“Wake Up” premiered at SXSW Film Festival and its New York City theatrical debut was hosted by Sting and Trudie Styler. The film includes interviews with many renowned scientists, teachers and spiritual leaders such as Sufi mystic Lllewellyn Vaughn-Lee, Abdi Assadi, JZ Knight, Stephan A. Schwartz Ph.D., Gary E. Schwartz Ph.D., Zen Roshi Joan Halifax and Roger Nelson Ph.D.
The film also boasts a stellar production team: Directors Jonas Elrod and Chloe Crespi; Producer Steve Hutensky (The Human Stain, Cold Mountain); Editor Chris Seward (Fahrenheit 911, Sicko); and Co-Executive Producer Trudie Styler; and features music from Radiohead, Sting, Brian Eno, Deerhunter and original music composed by Jonas Elrod.
