A film by Roland Vranik · 2026 · In development
The Stepfather
A high-concept drama spanning thirty-four years, from the meeting of Joseph and Mary to the death of Jesus. Told entirely through Joseph's eyes — an adoptive father attempting the impossible while raising a son who believes himself to be the Messiah.
Synopsis
The Stepfather turns the most familiar of biblical stories on its head. Roland Vranik directs a raw, naturalistic feature that follows the Holy Family across thirty-four years inside a turbulent Jewish society under murderous Roman rule — carrion pits, stonings, slavery, fear. No sepia-toned tableaus, no painterly deserts, no theatrical tears: handheld cameras stay close to the actors' heavy, intense struggles. Joseph, the adoptive father, must keep his family alive through years that prophecy has already condemned, and accompany a son to a death he cannot prevent. A Ben-Hur-free approach, closer to Dogme than to biblical cinema — Vranik's stylistic touchstones are The Florida Project, Mommy, Julia and The Wrestler.
Project
- Director
- Roland Vranik
- Expected year
- 2026
- Genre
- Biblical Drama
- Status
- In development
- Production company
- Elcano Films
Financing
This film follows the standard financing model: roughly 50% from public incentives and grants, 50% from international financing partners and sales agents.
Production deck and synopsis available on request. Press, sales agents and financing partners welcome.
Talk to the producers