Beloved C.S. Lewis Classic Gets Hollywood Makeover
C.S. Lewis’ famous work The Screwtape Letters is being turned into a feature film, led by Max McLean and his New York-based company, Fellowship for Performing Arts (FPA). Known for their stage productions based on Lewis’ writings, FPA recently acquired the rights to bring this satirical Christian classic to the screen. The project is a collaboration with The C.S. Lewis Company and follows FPA’s previous success with the 2021 film The Most Reluctant Convert, which depicted Lewis’ spiritual journey from atheism to Christianity.
The Screwtape Letters, originally published in 1942, uses fictional letters from a senior demon to his nephew to explore themes of temptation, morality, and spiritual warfare. The book remains one of Lewis’ most influential works, widely read and admired for its wit and theological depth. The C.S. Lewis Company praised FPA for its long-standing commitment to honoring Lewis’ legacy through thoughtful and faithful adaptations, both on stage and now in film.
FPA’s theatrical version of The Screwtape Letters has been performed in major cities like New York and London, gaining critical acclaim over nearly two decades. The organization, founded by McLean, produces content from a Christian worldview and has brought to life several of Lewis’ works, as well as other faith-based stories. Their productions are designed not only for church audiences but also for secular spaces like universities and performing arts venues.
McLean emphasizes that their mission is to engage a wide range of people, including skeptics, by sparking meaningful conversations about faith and truth. He credits Lewis’ clarity of thought and ability to communicate complex theological ideas in a relatable way as key to his enduring influence. McLean also highlights Lewis’ distinctive approach—merging intellect with deep Christian conviction—as a major reason his writings continue to resonate today.
Despite passing away in 1963, Lewis remains one of the most recognized Christian thinkers and authors worldwide. His fiction has been adapted numerous times for television and film, including a BBC series and a set of blockbuster movies. Books like Mere Christianity have significantly shaped the spiritual journeys of prominent individuals, and McLean believes Lewis’ unique voice continues to be a powerful tool for exploring life’s biggest questions.