Two of Hollywood’s most influential faith-based filmmakers have joined forces to create what promises to be one of Netflix’s most anticipated releases of 2025. Devon Franklin and Tyler Perry announced their collaboration on “Ruth & Boaz,” a modern adaptation of the timeless biblical love story that will transport audiences from ancient Israel to contemporary rural Tennessee. The September 26, 2025 premiere represents the first project under their groundbreaking multi-picture partnership, signaling a significant shift in faith-driven entertainment on streaming platforms.
The announcement sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, as both Franklin and Perry are known for their individual successes in creating spiritually resonant content that appeals to mainstream audiences. Their combined creative vision promises to deliver a film that honors biblical traditions while speaking to contemporary relationship dynamics and personal transformation themes.
Star-studded cast brings biblical characters to life
The film features rising star Serayah in the title role of Ruth, a talented singer from Atlanta whose life takes an unexpected turn when she leaves her promising music career to support a grieving mother figure. Serayah’s casting represents a significant opportunity for the actress to showcase her dramatic range beyond her previous work, particularly given the emotional complexity required for this biblical adaptation.
Tyler Lepley steps into the role of Boaz, the compassionate landowner whose encounter with Ruth transforms both their lives. Lepley’s previous work in dramatic television and film positions him perfectly for this character, which requires both strength and vulnerability as he navigates unexpected love and spiritual growth.
Phylicia Rashad anchors the cast as the grieving mother figure, bringing her decades of acclaimed performance experience to what promises to be a pivotal role. Her involvement adds gravitas to the project and connects the film to a legacy of powerful African American storytelling traditions that have influenced generations of audiences.
Creative team combines faith and cinematic excellence
Director Alanna Brown leads the creative team, bringing her unique vision to this modern biblical adaptation. Her approach promises to balance the spiritual themes of the original story with contemporary filmmaking techniques that will resonate with today’s Netflix audiences. The choice of Brown as Director reflects the production’s commitment to fresh perspectives on traditional narratives.
Screenwriters Michael Elliot and Cory Tynan have crafted a screenplay that transplants the ancient story to rural Tennessee, creating opportunities for authentic regional storytelling while maintaining the universal themes of love, loyalty, and redemption. Their adaptation strategy involves updating cultural contexts while preserving the spiritual core that makes the biblical narrative timeless.
The creative team’s approach emphasizes character development and emotional authenticity, ensuring that audiences connect with Ruth and Boaz as real people facing genuine challenges rather than distant historical figures. This modern setting allows for exploration of contemporary issues like career sacrifice, family obligations, and finding love in unexpected circumstances.
Faith-based entertainment reaches new streaming heights
The Franklin-Perry partnership represents a significant evolution in faith-based entertainment, moving beyond traditional theatrical releases to embrace streaming platforms that reach global audiences. Their collaboration signals Netflix’s continued investment in diverse storytelling that appeals to underserved market segments while maintaining broad entertainment value.
Community engagement efforts surrounding the film’s release are expected to build on both Franklin’s and Perry’s established fan bases, creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue about faith, relationships, and personal growth. The African American community has shown particular enthusiasm for the project, recognizing the importance of positive representation in biblical adaptations.
The film’s themes of love and resilience arrive at a time when audiences are seeking uplifting content that provides hope and inspiration. The combination of spiritual messaging with high-quality production values positions “Ruth & Boaz” to become a defining entry in the faith-based streaming landscape, potentially influencing future projects in this growing genre segment.
