Our Next Screening
A monthly film series at the Byrd Theatre where Virginia’s films and filmmakers meet the hearts of our community.
By the Grace of Bob
Comedy
JULY 13, 2026 · 6:00 PM · BYRD THEATRE, RICHMOND VA
By the Grace of Bob is a 2016 independent feature film produced by Belltower Pictures. The movie blends comedy, faith, and community storytelling in a light-hearted but sincere exploration of acceptance, collaboration, and grace.
Typical Evening Experience:
- 6:00 PM — Reception & Networking
- 7:00 PM — Film Screening
- 8:15 PM — Live hosted Q&A with Filmmakers
Each screening is moderated by Craig Martin, co-host of PBS’s The Good Road.
More about the Film
Overview
The story follows a young Jewish filmmaker from New York who ends up helping an enthusiastic Baptist preacher in rural Alabama make a film about the Prodigal Son. What starts as a chaotic church movie project becomes a broader story about unlikely friendships, cultural misunderstandings, and learning to love people outside your comfort zone.
The film leans into:
- Small-town church dynamics
- Humor rooted in personality clashes
- Interfaith and cross-cultural understanding
- Redemption and forgiveness themes
- Grassroots filmmaking itself as part of the story
Production & Creative Team
The film was directed by David E. Powers and written by David Powers, Deborah Hocutt, and Greg Womble.
Notable cast members include:
- Paul Wilson as Brother Bob Cross
- Sterling Hurst
- Christie Osterhus
- Tim Reid
- Daphne Reid
Tone & Audience
The film is a family-friendly, faith-oriented comedy. Dove.org described it as a “witty movie with a message” focused on “love, acceptance, and trust in God.”
Presented by Belltower Pictures at the historic Byrd Theatre | Second Monday of Every Month
More than a Movie
Scene in VA
In a world where most films are watched alone on phones, laptops, and streaming platforms, Scene in Virginia creates something different. This monthly curated film series brings audiences and filmmakers together for a shared theatrical experience centered around storytelling, conversation, and community.
Virginia is filled with extraordinary filmmakers and powerful stories — yet many independent films never receive the theatrical experience they deserve. Scene in Virginia was created to change that.
This isn’t just about watching a film.
It’s about engaging with it—and with each other.
Hosted monthly at the Byrd Theatre, we:
- Showcase Virginia filmmakers and regional film culture
- Spark meaningful dialogue around storytelling
- Bring audiences together through shared experience
Each Scene in Virginia event includes:
- A curated Virginia-made or Virginia-focused film screening
- Live filmmaker Q&A and audience discussion
- Opportunities to connect with Richmond’s creative community
Are you a Filmmaker?
Scene in Virginia accepts submissions from Virginia filmmakers and films connected to Virginia stories, people, and places.