Anthony Evans, singer/songwriter and son of prominent pastor Tony Evans, is making his acting debut in "Caged No More", a newly-released film focusing on sex trafficking, the world's fastest-growing crime.
"Before working on this movie, I didn't know that 27 million people are trafficked each year - every 30 seconds someone falls victim to sex trafficking." Evans told The Gospel Herald in an exclusive interview. "This movie really sheds light on a global epidemic that isn't talked about enough."
Based on a true story, "Caged No More" follows God-fearing grandmother Aggie Prejean (Emmy-Award winner Loretta Devine), as she desperately searches to find her two granddaughters, Skye and Elle, who have been kidnapped by their father, Jack (Kevin Sorbo).
Eventually, it's discovered that their father has taken them overseas to be sold into slavery to settle a drug debt. In an effort to save her granddaughters, Prejean enlists the help of the girls' uncle, a well-respected local philanthropist and his son, Wil (Alan Powell), who's a former special forces soldier. Evans describes his character, Tyler, as a "computer - tech nerd" who helps uncover Jack's sinister plot. Together, the team stops at nothing to ensure the girls are returned safely home.
"I was a little nervous about first entering into the world of acting, but it was such a great experience - Kevin Sorbo and Loretta Devine were incredible to work with. It was a privilege to be a part of this movie - I'd love to do more acting the future," Evans said.
Winner of the "Activism" Award at the Socially Relevant Film Festival and "Best New Feature" Award at La Femme Film Festival, "Caged No More" seeks to "raise awareness of human trafficking, assist in connecting anti-trafficking organizations, equip parents, schools and churches to aid in prevention, and assist in eradicating human trafficking."
While working on "Caged No More", Evans said his eyes were opened to the horrors of human trafficking and just how rampant of an issue it is worldwide. He told The Gospel Herald he believes this film will not only raise awareness, but will help parents teach their children about this devastating reality.
"I think 'Caged No More' really opens that door for families to be able to talk to their children about this issue," Evans said. "There are so many ways people can get involved in fighting against it, and I think this movie will encourage Christians to do just that."
While he just recently made his film debut, Evans has been a staple in the gospel music industry for years and was even featured on NBC's show The Voice. One of his songs, Heal a Heart, is featured in "Caged No More".
"I was actually inspired to write 'Heal a Heart' while on set for 'Caged No More'," Evans revealed. "It was pretty surreal getting to be in the theater with all of my friends and hearing my song in the film. It was really an amazing experience."
Evans' family is also prominent in the faith community: His father Tony Evans, is a pastor, and his sister Priscilla Shirer, is a NYT bestselling author and star of the faith-based film "War Room."
When asked about growing up in a ministry family, Evans admitted he was faced with certain pressures, but said his personal relationship with Christ allowed him to focus on developing his personal talents and gifts.
"I would encourage others growing up with family in ministry to really seek out God's calling for their lives and focus their hearts and minds on what God would have you do - not what others expect of you," he said.
"Caged No More" is rated PG-13 (mature themes, some violence) and co-written and directed by Lisa Arnold (co-producer for "God's Not Dead"). The film is currently available at Wal-mart, Amazon.com and Christian bookstores everywhere. For more information, visit www.cagednomoremovie.com. To learn more about Anthony Evans, visit www.anthony-evans.com.
