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‘Still Hope’ Releases Today: Hope After Human Trafficking

‘Still Hope’ Releases Today: Hope After Human Trafficking

Last updated on: February 5, 2026 at 9:32 am by DeWayne Hamby

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‘Still Hope’ Releases Today: Hope After Human Trafficking 2026-02-05T09:32:04-04:00 DeWayne Hamby

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A new faith-based film exploring the aftermath of sex trafficking and the path to healing debuts in theaters nationwide today, aiming to spark conversations about forgiveness and recovery.

‘Still Hope’ image courtesy of Fathom Entertainment.

“Still Hope,” directed and produced by Richie Johns of Studio 523, opens for a limited run through Feb. 9 via Fathom Entertainment, in partnership with Pixels of Hope Studios. The movie draws from true stories of women who have escaped sex trafficking, highlighting their journeys toward redemption and the role of faith-based organizations in their support.

The film follows 16-year-old Hope, a girl from a quiet community who is lured into danger by a deceptive new friend. Ripped from her family and forced into trafficking, she endures years of abuse before finding freedom and reuniting with loved ones who never stopped searching. Safety brings new challenges as Hope grapples with trauma and readjusts to life.

Filmmakers collaborated with the Pure Hope Foundation, a nonprofit combating sex trafficking, for authenticity.

“Physical healing is only the beginning when sex trafficking ends,” said Kathrine Lee, co-founder and CEO of Pure Hope Foundation. “The emotional and spiritual scars can run deep. Every individual has a unique experience and voice, and it is important to share their stories. ‘Still Hope’ is a beautiful reminder of what it looks like for many of these individuals to move from darkness to redemption.”

Statistics underscore the film’s urgency—the National Human Trafficking Hotline reported 9,619 potential cases in 2023, involving an estimated 16,999 victims across every U.S. state and territory, affecting people regardless of age, ethnicity or gender.

Johns said the project emphasizes two core themes. “We set out to convey two main themes through ‘Still Hope’,” he said. “We wanted to remind audiences that healing is a process, not an event. It takes time and sometimes we’re left to sit in the uncomfortable and that’s ok. Second, we wanted to show the restorative power of forgiveness. The whole idea of forgiveness is radical, but it’s at the heart of the gospel and that’s the story we wanted to tell.”

Timed to follow January’s Human Trafficking Awareness Month, “Still Hope” positions itself as more than entertainment. It promotes the Still Hope Project, a collaborative effort by partner organizations offering resources for survivors. The project’s website educates on trafficking’s realities and provides ways to get involved, from supporting anti-trafficking groups to advocating for change.”

“’Still Hope’ is more than a film; it’s a movement,” Johns said. “The ‘Still Hope’ Project provides resources for our audiences to take action and get involved in the fight to end human trafficking. I hope that this film sparks life-changing conversations and leaves a lasting impression of the power of forgiveness.”

The movie has garnered support from figures like Natalie Grant, a nine-time GRAMMY nominee and co-founder of Hope for Justice, an anti-trafficking organization. “I hope this film serves as a reminder that there is light in the darkness, true freedom in forgiveness and that there’s always hope,” Grant said. “These advocates—who offer comprehensive, long-term care—are well-equipped to honor, lift up and guide those who are ready to receive support. I encourage you to join in this important and courageous work of healing. We need your help.”

Produced amid growing awareness of human trafficking, “Still Hope” arrives at a time when advocates are pushing for more resources and education. The film’s narrative avoids graphic depictions of exploitation, focusing instead on post-trauma recovery and the “warriors” who aid survivors. Johns and his team consulted extensively with experts to portray diverse experiences sensitively.

The release comes as faith-based films continue to find audiences, following successes like “Sound of Freedom,” which also tackled trafficking. Unlike that film, “Still Hope” centers on emotional and spiritual restoration of the victims.

The film’s backers hope it inspires action. As Grant noted, the work requires community involvement. With trafficking reports rising, “Still Hope” serves as a timely call to empathy and engagement.

In Franklin, Tennessee, where parts of the production took place, local advocates praised the film’s approach. Pure Hope Foundation’s involvement ensured cultural and factual accuracy, from survivor consultations to depicting support networks.

Johns, reflecting on the project’s genesis, said it stemmed from real encounters with survivors. “We wanted to honor their courage,” he said. The result is a story that, while fictionalized, mirrors the resilience of many.

“Still Hope,” directed by Richie Johns and starring Luna Rivera, Alex Veadov, John D. Michaels, Michelle Haro, Andrea Mitchell, and Kionta Banks, opens for a limited run in theaters today through Fathom Entertainment.

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