By Derryck “Nes” Johnson
I recently had the great opportunity to talk with the current VP of Columbia Tri-Star Pictures Devon Franklin, who’s already overseen such blockbuster hits like “Sparkle” by the late Whitney Houston and “The Karate Kid” with Jackie Chan and Jaden Smith, which grossed over $350 million worldwide. We discussed the new film project releasing this week titled Heaven is For Real and what it takes to inspired motivation.
How did you get your start in the business & as an inspirational speaker?
You know I really got started as an intern. I got started back in the day working for Will Smith a little bit before I got started interning in Hollywood. Working in the business and having been put into ministry was something that was kind of organic and as a kid and then a teenager growing up, I was always speaking. Whether it was running for somebody’s office, I was always speaking to people trying to get them motivated and inspired. Upon getting into the entertainment industry and working my way up, the book opportunity presented itself. I really reflected on the incredible experiences I had and it really just made sense to take advantage of the opportunity by writing [Produced by Faith] and to put things in the book that would help people in their daily lives.
How do you get inspired each day?
One thing is I start with the Bible and read the word each day. That’s the first source of inspiration. I rely on the Creator for daily inspiration. Another thing is that I look at the news. I look at the culture by checking the blogs to see what’s going on. Then there are things out there I don’t like which can also serve as a source of inspiration. My job and my goal are to perfect the culture and to uplift the culture, while also inspiring the culture. Sometimes you’ll see something that upsets you and you decide to do something about it. So I definitely try to stay on top of everything that’s going on.
How is it juggling your career and marriage to actress Meagan Good, who also has a very demanding career?
You know what — it takes a lot of flexibility and commitment. We both love each other dearly and sometimes she’ll be on the set working and I’ll fly out to where she’s shooting to be with her. If I’m going to go get this award or have a speaking engagement, she’ll fly out to me, so we keep everything flexible and stay consistent in communication and that really helps to keep things in the relationship together.
Heaven is For Real debuted April 16th in theaters nationwide. How excited are you?
Oh man…I’m so excited. This movie I feel will no doubt touch people and inspire those who come out to see it. It’s based upon the book which was written by Todd Burpo and Lynn Vincent. It’s the true story of young Colton Burpo who at the age of 4 had appendicitis and almost died on the operating table. He then comes back from this near-death experience and talks about his amazing trip to Heaven. The story itself has already inspired millions of people, while selling over 10 million copies [and being] on the NY Times Best Sellers [list]. The movie version will mesmerize and captivate audiences. I’m so thankful it’s coming out in time for Easter and hope everyone around the country will come out and support this film and be as moved by the story as I was.
You’ve been honored recently with the 2014 Trumpet award for media & film. How did it feel to receive such a prestigious award?
It’s a tremendous blessing! I’m so humbled and so grateful that the Trumpet Foundation would think of me. As I said in my acceptance speech, I don’t accept the honor for something I’ve done. I’m looking at it as a down payment for something I might do in the future. With accepting this honor comes a huge responsibility that I’m hopefully up for the challenge of being able to continue to uplift the culture through media and film and continue to be a positive influence and role model. [The show] airs on TV ONE on the 20th I believe. I’m so excited for everyone to view the show. The show itself was fantastic and filled with incredible performances. I’m just one of many honorees. Each speech given was so powerful and emotional and is probably one of the best shows they’ve ever done.
What’s next for Mr. Devon Franklin in the near future?
You know I’m really excited about Annie, which is coming out for Christmas. I think everyone is going to love the movie. I’m also working on another book with my wife which is something we’re both excited about. Aside from Annie I’m working on a lot of other films I’m hoping hit the theaters real soon.