The Blind is now the most successful release in the history of Fathom Events, as the faith-based feature has grossed $15.7 million at the North American box office as of Monday.
The film is Fathom’s first to see a longer theatrical run than its traditional event cinema releases. Originally slated for an eight-day run as part of Fathom’s new specialty distribution model, it was extended twice, Fathom said, and held a steady position in the top 10 for the duration of its more than three weeks in cinemas.
The Blind was produced by Tread Lively and GND Media Group. Andrew Hyatt directs the back-story of the star of Duck Dynasty, Phil Robertson. In 1960s Louisiana, Robertson falls in love and starts a family, but his demons soon threaten to tear everyone apart. As he seeks to conquer the shame of his past, he ultimately finds redemption in an unlikely place.
The A&E reality series about the close-knit Robertson clan and its multimillion-dollar sporting empire making products for duck hunters ran from 2012-2017.
Fathom’s previous theatrical record was The Chosen, Season Three, episodes One and Two, which grossed $14.6 million. The streaming series about the life of Jesus was written, directed and produced by Dallas Jenkins. Fathom will be partnering with The Chosen again, bringing the entire Season Four content to theaters in February.
“From the beginning, we knew how special this film was, and we were eager to support it in the best way possible,” said Ray Nutt, CEO of Fathom Events. “Giving the film a longer theatrical run was a great decision for Fathom because of how important it was to bring this message to the fans – it resonated with so many people, which is why The Blind has had such staying power.”
Fathom Events most recent releases include two strong performers this past weekend with the rerelease of Back to the Future and the kick-off of the 17th year of The Met: Live in HD with the performance of Jake Heggie’s Dead Man Walking.
It’s also kicked off its second collaboration with Bleecker Street Media with the recent trailer release for Waitress: The Musical.
The company is a joint venture of AMC Entertainment, Regal and Cinemark and works with hundreds of other exhibitors.