All boxing scenes were shot in the last two days of filming so if McConnell got "smashed in the face or whatever, we still got our film," Christensen joked.
Christensen stated: "This is the best church history story you've never heard of. Actually, that would be the headline,"
The film opens on Pioneer Day, July 24.
Christensen was first introduced to the story through the book, "A Lion and a Lamb," by Rand Packer, about eight years ago. He liked it but foresaw challenges in how to tell the story on the big screen. Christensen set it aside and continued making other films.
"The Fighting Preacher," filmed in various locations around Utah, is the latest cinema production by Christensen, who in recent years directed "17 Miracles," "Ephraim's Rescue," "The Cokeville Miracle" and "Love, Kennedy." This film tells the true story of Willard and Rebecca Bean and their call by President Joseph F. The episode also marks the first appearance of guest star Julie Dretzin, the wife of Preacher showrunner Sam Catlin, as the mysterious Dany.