Billy: The Early Years Synopsis & Summary

He remains one of the true icons of late 20th and early 21st century evangelism. But what of his early years -- the years that led him into full-time ministry? As scripted and directed by acclaimed actor Robby Benson (The Chosen), this fact-based historical drama depicts Billy Graham (here played by Armie Hammer) as an earnest young man whose life is irrevocably changed via his interaction with another up-and-coming follower of God, Charles Templeton. Though fast friends, the men reach a crossroads and fork off in opposing directions when Templeton's faith buckles beneath the weight of the scientific revolution and the evidence that he perceives as an unshakable threat to Christianity. The disbelief that Templeton demonstrates, in turn, convinces Graham to take the altar call in the Depression-era South, in an effort to bring people to God who find themselves mired in agnosticism and atheism. Martin Landau portrays Charles Templeton as an old man, Josh Turner plays George Beverly Shea, and Stefanie Butler co-stars as Graham's wife, Ruth Bell Graham. - Nathan Southern, All Movie Guide