New Faith-Based Movie "Stay Prayed Up" Is a Heartwarming Story About Faith, Music and Community

New film Stay Prayed Up is about 82-year-old Lena Mae Perry and her legendary North Carolina gospel group The Branchettes. The film documents The Branchettes as they record their first, fully live album. Through shared prayer, laughter, hardship and praise, this "church gospel noisy crew" demonstrates that music, like faith, ain't nothing without some fire inside. 

The film is poised to release in limited theaters June 17, 2022, followed by a home entertainment launch on Apple TV and Google Play in July.  

The story revolves around the faith and singing talents of Lena Mae Perry. She's spent the last 50 years sharing and sharpening both as the steadfast bandleader of The Branchettes, a legendary North Carolina gospel group that has packed churches throughout the South and lifted hearts as far away as Ireland.  

Stay Prayed Up is a spirited celebration, inviting audiences into "Mother" Perry's close-knit community as the 83-year-old strives to extend The Branchettes' sacred song ministry ever forward.  The film follows The Branchettes as they record their first live album, a hallmark in the canon of Black gospel groups.  Through shared prayer, laughter, and praise, this "church gospel noisy crew" demonstrates that music, like faith, ain't nothing without some fire inside. 

"We believe Stay Prayed Up offers a well-timed, welcomed dose of spiritual and communal uplift," said Co-Director Anderson. Co-Director Matt Durning added, "We are thrilled to partner with Greenwich to offer this soul stirring experience to a range of theatrical audiences seeking healing and renewal, regardless of their faith practice or background." 

Stay Prayed Up was produced by Mikel Barton, Phil Cook, Lena C. Williams, and Leslie Raymond. Greenwich's Andy Bohn negotiated the acquisition with Cinetic Media's Jason Ishikawa on behalf of the filmmakers. 

Tags : Stay Prayed Up movie Faith based movie The Branchettes Lena Mae Perry