By Kayla DeKraker
The Kendrick Brothers’ first movie, FLYWHEEL, is returning in a fresh new way this fall.
“Sony Pictures’ AFFIRM Films announces the official release date for its upcoming inspirational drama FLYWHEEL: IGNITION OF THE SOUL,” a press release announced. “A Brazilian remake of the Kendrick Brothers’ debut feature, which launched their two-decade run as leading voices in faith-based filmmaking, the new film will be released exclusively in theaters nationwide on October 16, 2026.”
The Kendrick brothers have received a positive response towards their movies in Brazil. When THE FORGE hit the Brazilian markets, people in the country shared their desire to see more positive, faith-based movies. The press release explained that Ygor Siqueira and 360WayUp teamed up with the Kendricks to choose which story to retell to the Brazilian people. They landed on FLYWHEEL.
“The Brazilian filmmakers had all the talent and ingredients in the kitchen but wanted us to help them produce something inspirational in Brazil at the quality they saw in THE FORGE,” Alex Kendrick said.
Stephen Kendrick added, “What usually takes months of preparation happened in days. It was amazing. We did not know the language, local resources, or culture, but saw God help us do more in less time. We found out that Brazilian pastors had been praying for this for five years. The movie is better shot, acted, and scored than the original, and the storyline is just as powerful. I’m truly excited to see how audiences will respond to this new version in theaters this fall.”
“Set in Rio de Janeiro,” the movie’s description begins, “the new film FLYWHEEL: IGNITION OF THE SOUL follows Noah Silva, a smooth-talking, used-car salesman whose ‘do whatever it takes’ approach to business and life begins to unravel at home and at work. After a series of wake-up calls, Noah is forced to confront the cost of his choices. He begins a difficult and deeply personal journey to restore his integrity while trying to win back the hearts of his wife and son.”
Rich Peluso, head of AFFIRM, said, “It has been an honor to partner with the Kendricks over the past 20 years and witness firsthand the extraordinary worldwide impact of their films. It’s exciting to see the story of FLYWHEEL reimagined in a new and meaningful way, introducing a new generation to what made it so special in the first place.”
Last August, 360WayUp shared some behind-the-scenes moments from the collaboration.
“The power of faith behind the scenes. When cameras go off, real magic happens,” the group wrote in the caption. “During the making of the interviews with the Kendrick brothers, it was impossible not to feel the impact of faith in every word, every gesture, every moment. It’s not just about telling stories; it’s about inspiring, transforming and reminding us all of the power of God. Every backstage of this production was a reminder that, with faith, work becomes more than a project. [It] becomes a mission.”
Movieguide®’s review of the original FLYWHEEL, which came out in 2003, reads, “FLYWHEEL is a compelling movie despite the fact that the camerawork and production quality is very low. Alex Kendrick does a terrific job as Jay Austin. He also does a good job directing the movie.”
Movieguide® adds, “Overall the story, which is extremely well written, commands the audience’s attention, and in fact, keeps you on the edge of your seat. What is truly amazing is that this was produced by a church. With a little polish, FLYWHEEL could be a contender in major release. It is worth a bigger budget.”
FLYWHEEL: IGNITION OF THE SOUL promises to be an exciting spin on the original.
Read Next: Alex Kendrick on Why ‘God is the Perfect Father’
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