Southern Gospel News SGNScoops Digital

Aidan Quinn and Andie MacDowell Star in Emotional True Story of Christian Family’s Journey from Personal Tragedy to Life-Giving Heroism

LOS ANGELES, July 19, 2011 /Christian Newswire/ — Fox Home Entertainment will release THE 5TH QUARTER, by writer/director Rick Bieber (Crazy), and starring Andie MacDowell (Groundhog Day) and Aidan Quinn (Legends of the Fall) on DVD on August 30 and on Demand following the DVD release.
 THE 5TH QUARTER is an emotional true story about family, inspiration, football and the precious gift of life. When a tragic car crash claims the life of 15 year-old Luke Abbate, his older brother Jon considers ending his college football career but instead decides to honor his brother’s memory by continuing to play — and lead. With approval from his coach Jon changes his jersey to Luke’s number five and dedicates the upcoming season to the remembrance of his fallen younger brother. Driven by Luke’s memory, Jon leads his underdog Wake Forest Demon Deacons all the way to the ACC Championship and designation as “most improved team in America.” With the support of his heartbroken but determined family, Jon helps rally a team, a school and a community to achieve more than could ever have been imagined.
“This is an incredible true story of how grace can abound when we accept and cooperate with God’s plan, even in even the most difficult situations,” said director Rick Bieber. “I’m honored to have worked with Aidan and Andie, whose talent as actors does justice to this remarkably faith-filled and inspiring story.”
THE 5TH QUARTER had a limited theatrical release after wowing crowds at The Heartland and Hollywood Film Festivals and winning Best Picture at the Charleston, Long Island and Louisville International Film Festivals. It also won Best Screenplay at the Boston Film Festival.
“We are very excited to be releasing such an uplifting and well-crafted film,” said Simon Swart, Exec. VP of Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. “We believe that the Abbate’s story will impact families across the country with its message of faithful perseverance in the face of tragedy.”