In 1979, musicians and brothers Donnie and Joe Emerson recorded the album 'Dreamin' Wild'. Unfortunately, the album failed to gain traction, leading them to pursue separate career paths.
Nearly three decades later, a music label specializing in overlooked albums reached out to the brothers. The inspiring journey of their Catholic family is now depicted in 'Dreamin' Wild', a new Hollywood film that portrays their rise to success after overcoming numerous challenges.
The movie features Casey Affleck portraying Donnie Emerson, Zooey Deschanel as Donnie's wife, Nancy, and Walton Goggins as Joe Emerson.
Jacqueline Burkepile, the editor of ChurchPOP, conducted an interview with the musical couple Donnie and Nancy Emerson, who are a married duo. Additionally, the director of the film, Bill Pohlad, was also interviewed.
Donnie and Nancy frequently travel across the country, engaging in musical performances and recording sessions together. Bill Pohlad, who shares their Catholic faith, found joy in narrating this family's tale through the movie. Within the film, Pohlad, a prominent Hollywood director, thoughtfully integrated captivating Catholic visuals, which convey the Emerson family's devout beliefs.
The movie incorporates meaningful imagery such as the rosary, the Divine Mercy image, and Our Lady of Sorrows, illustrating how the family lives out their faith. Pohlad shared that his intention was not to be overt with the Catholic elements but to present their narrative in an authentic manner.
"I believe that allowing it to unfold naturally is more impactful," Pohlad remarked. "This is a genuine representation of who they are."
In their conversation with ChurchPOP, Donnie and Nancy also shared their aspirations for what their Catholic audience will glean from the film.
"I wish for them to witness the themes of reconciliation and forgiveness," Donnie expressed.
Donnie also desires that viewers recognize the strength of their family bond.
"We possess something unique, and I believe other families do too. Despite the challenges we face, I want them to understand that it's genuine, and we're all navigating through life together."
Nancy playfully adds that she hopes the audience recognizes that "being Catholic doesn't prevent you from being a rockstar."
Donnie concludes, "My aspiration is for people to realize that music is a gift from God. It truly is."
"To me, this movie is a manifestation of the Divine," he elaborates. "Such occurrences are not random. They don't happen to individuals like me who are relatively unknown."
"I wish for people to embrace the message of Psalm 46:11: 'Be still and know that I am God.'"