T D Kendrick

Alexander Kendrick, born in 1970, is an American pastor and filmmaker recognized for directing and starring in numerous faith-based films. He began his career in ministry after studying communication and theology, serving as a college minister before becoming an associate pastor at Sherwood Baptist Church. During his tenure there, he founded Sherwood Pictures, a production company that created influential films like 'Facing the Giants' and 'Fireproof'.

Kendrick's directorial work has achieved significant commercial success, with his films collectively grossing over $190 million worldwide. He holds the distinction of being one of only two directors with four films earning an "A+" grade from CinemaScore. Beyond filmmaking, Kendrick has co-authored several best-selling books with his brother Stephen, often exploring themes of faith, prayer, and relationships, with titles like 'The Love Dare' achieving extensive New York Times bestseller status. In 2013, he further expanded his production ventures by co-founding Kendrick Brothers Productions with his brother.

Born Alexander Kendrick in Athens, Georgia, he was raised in Smyrna, GA. He pursued higher education at Kennesaw State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts in communication. Before entering theological studies, Kendrick worked as a Christian DJ for two radio stations. He later attended New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary and was ordained into the ministry. He dedicated four years to serving as a minister to college students in Marietta, Georgia. From 1999 to 2014, he held the position of associate pastor at Sherwood Baptist Church in Albany, Georgia.

Kendrick's foray into filmmaking was motivated by a desire to influence culture, viewing films as potentially more impactful than churches. He co-founded Sherwood Pictures in 2002, which produced his early directorial efforts, including 'Flywheel', 'Facing the Giants', 'Fireproof', and 'Courageous'. His films have garnered substantial box office success, with 'Facing the Giants' grossing over $10 million and 'Fireproof' becoming the highest-grossing independent film of 2008. 'Courageous' also achieved significant commercial success. He later established Kendrick Brothers Productions with his brother Stephen. His film 'War Room' notably reached number one at the box office in its second week of release. His directorial work has been critically recognized, with four films achieving an "A+" CinemaScore, a rarity among directors.

In addition to his film work, Alex Kendrick has co-authored numerous best-selling books, primarily with his brother Stephen. These books often expand upon themes explored in his films or stand alone as guides to spiritual growth. Titles like 'The Love Dare', co-authored with Stephen and novelist Eric Wilson, spent 131 weeks on The New York Times Paperback Advice & Misc. Best Seller list, reaching the number one spot twice and selling over 6 million copies. Other successful collaborations include 'The Resolution for Men' and 'The Battle Plan for Prayer', both of which also appeared on The New York Times Best Seller list. The brothers have also released 'The Love Dare for Parents'.