With Michele Chynoweth
Michele Chynoweth’s bestselling novel, The Jealous Son, is on its way to the big screen, with early production underway for a major motion picture adaptation.
Partnering with Michele is award-winning actor, producer, and recording artist Catherine Lidstone, best known for her role as Mary of Bethany in The Chosen.
Together, they are working to create a Christian movie phenomenon, building relationships with production companies, directors, and actors in hopes of shooting the film later this year.
Connecting the Dots: From Novel to Film
Michele, a former marketing director turned book marketer, knows the value of networking.
Her journey to turn The Jealous Son into a movie started with connections she made at The Well Conference for Creatives in April.
“Eliza’s journey resonated with me. She goes through so much heartache and loss.” —Actress Catherine Lidstone
This pivotal moment followed her attendance at the AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association) conference in 2022, where she won The Golden Scroll Award for Contemporary Christian Fiction.
Networking, as Michele describes, has been critical in the transition from page to screen. Each connection brought her closer to assembling a team of creatives dedicated to bringing her novel to life.
A Role That Resonates
Catherine was captivated by the screenplay, especially the role of Eliza, the Eve-inspired character.
“Eliza’s journey resonated with me,” Catherine shared. “She goes through so much heartache and loss.”
Her connection to the project stems from her ability to bring depth and emotional resonance to her performances, making her a perfect fit for this challenging and transformative role.
Reimagining Bible History
The Jealous Son retells the Genesis story of Cain and Abel in a modern setting.
It begins with Anna, a young girl living on a Native American reservation in Arizona. Caught up in her boyfriend’s criminal actions, Anna and her friend Achak are banished by her father, the tribal chief.
Forced to change their names to Eliza and Alex, they struggle to survive in a rundown apartment, working menial jobs. Their sons, Cameron and Austin, find solace in music and eventually join a rock band.
But Austin’s stardom outshines Cameron, creating jealousy and rivalry. Austin gains their parents’ admiration and the girl Cameron loves, setting the stage for devastating consequences.
Finding Redemption in the Depths of Despair
As Cameron’s jealousy spirals into violence, Eliza is consumed with guilt over the role she played in her family’s destruction.
She turns to substance abuse and distances herself from God.
But even in her despair, Eliza finds redemption when God reaches out to her in an unexpected way.
She learns that while she cannot undo the past, she can embrace a new purpose and a hopeful future.
A Rising Star’s Vision
Besides her role in The Chosen, Catherine is also known for her performances in Proven Innocent and the recent hit movie Forty-Seven Days with Jesus. She brings both talent and vision to this project.
In addition to her acting, Catherine’s original music has been featured on major platforms like Disney, Netflix, and Amazon.
She will perform the movie’s title track, adding another layer of depth to the film.
Her ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability makes her the ideal choice to portray Eliza in this heartfelt, redemptive story.
For more information about The Jealous Son and updates on the film, visit Michele’s website or email her directly at michele@michelechynoweth.com.
