Hawk Hill Pictures, in partnership with A Channel of Peace, announces the upcoming release of the feature film The Hail Mary, a heartfelt comedy-drama written and directed by veteran actor and filmmaker Daniel Roebuck (Matlock, The Fugitive).
The film will premiere February 21 in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, where it was filmed, followed by a national release on February 27. The official trailer is now available to view.
Arriving just after football season, The Hail Mary delivers a timely and uplifting comeback story centered on redemption, faith, and community. Set within a Catholic school environment, the film follows a disillusioned man who unexpectedly rediscovers purpose, family, and belief in the most unlikely of ways.
Roebuck, who also stars in the lead role, draws deeply from his own upbringing in Catholic schools as a central influence on the story.
"I had such a positive experience growing up in Catholic schools and in the church, and I've always wanted to tell a story that reflects that-something people could relate to, with a sense of humor," says Roebuck. "We even used my old school as the rival team's location in the film, which made it all the more personal."
In The Hail Mary, Roebuck portrays Jake Bauer, a bitter and isolated loner whose life is turned upside down when he is reluctantly recruited to coach a struggling Catholic school football team. The unlikely effort is led by the determined and sharp-witted Sister Kathy, played by Marsha Dietlein Bennett (Newlyweds, Little Children). What begins as an unwanted obligation becomes a journey of service, healing, and unexpected community.
"This is a story about second chances," Roebuck adds. "Not just for one man, but for anyone who's ever needed a reminder that grace doesn't give up."
The film features a notable ensemble cast including Timothy E. Goodwin (Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty), Bret Anthony (Behind the Camera: The Unauthorized Story of 'Three's Company'), Duane Whitaker (Pulp Fiction), Tyler Mane (X-Men), and Joe Estevez (Eyes Upon Waking).
Following its Lehigh Valley debut, The Hail Mary will be released nationally through Hawk Hill Pictures using a multi-tiered distribution strategy, including theatrical screenings in select cities, licensed church screenings nationwide, and school and community engagements supported by curated discussion materials.
"We are excited for not only faith audiences to see the film, but mainstream audiences as well," said Jen Katzfey, President of Hawk Hill Pictures. "This film doesn't just entertain-it opens doors for meaningful conversations about forgiveness, mentorship, and healing."
Theaters, churches, schools, and community organizations interested in hosting a screening of The Hail Mary may submit a request through the Hawk Hill Pictures website. Discussion guides will be available to support group engagement.
