Left Behind - World War III the latest installment of the Christian-themed films based on the hugely popular "Left Behind" series of books, has begun principal photography in Toronto. Oscar-winner Lou Gossett, Jr. ("An Officer and a Gentleman," TV's "Resurrection Boulevard") and Kirk Cameron (TV's "Growing Pains," "Left Behind" movies) lead the cast under the helm of highly respected director Craig P. Baxley ("Storm of the Century," "Kingdom Hospital"). The feature film will be produced by Cloud Ten Pictures working closely with the creative group at Sony Pictures Home Entertainment.

"Signing on a respected, Oscar winning actor like Lou Gossett, Jr. is a clear indicator of the new direction we seek to take with Christian film," says producer Andre van Heerden. "Collaborating with the creative team at Sony has provided a different level of expertise in everything from casting, the script, the visual effects and the overall feature film feel this film will have. Yet, the core gospel message remains squarely in our hands."

After the film's theatrical release, "Left Behind - World War III" will be distributed on DVD and videocassette by Sony Pictures Home Entertainment (SPE) as part of its overall video distribution deal for the faith-based product produced by Cloud Ten.

Benjamin S. Feingold, the President of SPHE notes that there is a growing marketplace for faith-based films. "The Cloud Ten slate of titles has performed very well and their popularity will continue to increase as awareness and product availability among its unique audience widens. SPE is delighted to be able to work with Cloud Ten to broaden the availability of these films in the home entertainment market."

The "Left Behind" films are based on "The New York Times" #1 Best-selling books which have achieved phenomenal popularity throughout the world and which have sold more than 60 million copies combined. Written by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins, the books follow the lives and struggles of those left behind on Earth after the Rapture takes place as foretold in The Bible.

Video Software Dealers Association named the first "Left Behind" film "Best Selling Title of the Year by an Independent Studio" and the next film debuted at the U.S. box office second only to "Spiderman."