‘Sacred Heart’ Film Defies Expectations in France, Heads to U.S.

A new docudrama, Sacré Cœur: His Reign Is Endless (Sacred Heart), directed and produced by Steven and Sabrina Gunnell, has develop into a surprising box office success in France, drawing nearly half a million viewers since its October 1, 2025 release. Despite initial resistance from some segments of the French cultural establishment and even logistical hurdles like refusals from state-owned railway companies to advertise the film, it has resonated deeply with audiences and sparked a wave of conversions, according to the National Catholic Register.

A Story Rooted in History and Faith

The film explores the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus through the apparitions of Jesus to Saint Margaret-Marie Alacoque in Paray-le-Monial, Burgundy, in the 17th century. It interweaves historical reconstructions of these apparitions with direct testimonies and theological reflections, aiming to illustrate the Sacred Heart’s enduring power as a symbol of merciful love. DN Africa reports the film was created in 2024 in partnership with the Sanctuary of Paray-le-Monial.

Overcoming Opposition

The film faced opposition in France, with the Municipality of Marseille initially banning its screening and French Metros refusing advertising due to its perceived “religious and proselytizing nature.” However, Gunnell believes this resistance ultimately increased awareness of the film. As he stated, the opposition “made it possible to discover the existence of this docu-drama to those who, perhaps, would never have heard of it.”

The Gunnells’ Journey to Filmmaking

Steven Gunnell, formerly a member of the 1990s boy band Alliage, found faith after struggling with addiction and depression following the band’s dissolution. His wife, Sabrina Gunnell, an actress, also discovered faith in 2005 at the sanctuary of the Sacred Heart of Paray-le-Monial. Together, they have dedicated themselves to producing films linked to the Christian faith, including Eternam, Claire-Aimé, Gaspard, and Une seule chair. Sabrina Gunnell initially suggested the film about the Sacred Heart to her husband, and they both described the creation process as guided by “Providence.”

U.S. Release Planned

SAJE Distribution is planning a U.S. Release for Sacred Heart just before or during the celebrations for the 2026 Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The National Catholic Register notes that the film has defied predictions, achieving record attendance per screening in France.

A Reflection of Societal Shifts?

Le Figaro newspaper reported that the film’s success “reveals the discreet but real return to religion in French society.” Gunnell believes audiences were moved by both the story of the apparitions and the diverse testimonies featured in the film, which offered “new courage and ardor.” He added, “The truth is that only Christ can bring unity and joy to such a disintegrated and desperate humanity.”