🎥 JOHN CLARKE ✨ A persecuted minister risks treason to defy the Puritans and confront kings—securing the first written guarantee of religious freedom.
"JOHN CLARKE" tells the story of Baptist Minister Dr. John Clarke and his determination to fight against religious oppression, the erosion of his own personal rights, increasing hardships, and the danger of being accused of treason to obtain the Rhode Island Royal Charter of 1663 from King Charles II. This charter allowed Rhode Island to form an autonomous government and enjoy extensive Religious Freedom and Civil Rights, significantly altering the course of American history.
👉 BE PART OF THE STORY
✨ HELP DEFEND THE SOUL OF LIBERTY
Before the American Revolution, before the Constitution, a forgotten rebel challenged Kings, defied the puritanical church, and secured the world’s first guarantee of religious freedom. His name was John Clarke.
Born in 1609 in Westhorpe England, Clarke was a Baptist Minister, Physician, Political Exile and regarded by some as a radical idealist who dared to envision something no one else in the 17th century could; a colony built not on control of the King, but on Full Freedom of Conscience. Arrested, jailed, threatened with death and expelled from Massachusetts for his beliefs, Clarke co-founded Rhode Island, a daring experiment in liberty, not as a refuge - but as a revolutionary act of religious freedom.
Inspired by actual events, JOHN CLARKE embodies elements of Braveheart, Lincoln, and Amazing Grace. In honor of my beloved ancestor, I am called to elevate his story from the obscurity of history and position him among the pantheon of American heroes.
With your financial contributions, we will John's inspiring and timely story as a Feature Film for Nationwide and International Theatrical Release! We offer a number of options to contribute to our production either directly or through our Fiscal Sponsor.
On behalf of my cast and crew, we sincerely thank you for your support!
~ Andrea M Clarke - Producer, Director, Writer
2h 15min | English | Historical Drama
A PERSECUTED MINISTER RISKS TREASON TO DEFEND THE SOUL OF LIBERTY
In the tradition of Braveheart, Lincoln, and Amazing Grace, this story inspired by actural events follows a persecuted Baptist minister who outmaneuvered his adversaries and confronted kings to help shape the soul of American liberty—without firing a single shot.
Inspirational, Faith, Historical Drama, Inspired by a True Story
Current Phase
Final Development * Funding
Proof of Concept Trailer Released
INVEST IN A STORY THAT DEFENDS FREEDOM OF CONSCIENCE
JOHN CLARKE — AMERICA'S FORGOTTEN PATRIOT
A cinematic feature inspired by true events, developed by filmmaker Andrea M. Clarke, John Clarke's 8th great-niece, for national and international theatrical release.
An Inspirational Thriller of Faith, Courage, and Conscience
John Clarke — is an inspirational thriller inspired by true events, unfolding during one of the most dangerous periods in English history—the Regicide Hunts. Returning to England after the execution of King Charles I, Clarke entered what could only be described as a lion’s den, where suspicion reigned, dissenters were hunted, and men were executed for standing by conscience rather than crown.
During this period, Clarke witnessed friends and allies imprisoned and executed for defending religious liberty. The threat was not abstract—it was immediate, personal, and fatal. Yet instead of retreating or responding in kind, Clarke pressed forward with extraordinary restraint and resolve. He moved carefully, spoke deliberately, and relied on faith, wisdom, and courage to survive long enough to complete his mission.
Operating under constant danger, Clarke continued his work—petitioning power, forging alliances, and advancing a vision of liberty that defied the politics of fear. His perseverance culminated in the Rhode Island Charter of 1663, the world’s first written guarantee that no person would be punished for matters of conscience.
This film does not dwell on brutality; it illuminates courage. It tells the story of a man who entered the darkest corridors of power, witnessed the cost of truth, and still chose hope—proving that faith guided by conscience can outlast tyranny.
Why This Film Matters Now
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Religious persecution is increasing worldwide, with millions facing imprisonment, exile, violence, or death for their beliefs
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Freedom of conscience—once secured at great cost—is again under threat
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This film reveals the true legal origin of protected religious liberty
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Dr. John Clarke authored the Rhode Island Royal Charter of 1663, the world’s first written guarantee that no person would be punished for matters of faith
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His principle of “Soul Liberty” became a cornerstone of the First Amendment
Funding Opportunities
🌟 Major Sponsors & Individual Donors
🎓 Foundation & Grant Alignment
🕊️ Tax-Deductible Contributions (via fiscal sponsorship, where applicable)
🎥 Passive Equity Participation
🤝 Brand Partnerships - Commercials
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High-Impact Integrations: Seamlessly weave modern products into authentic 1600s sets for tongue-in-cheek comedic value.
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Marquee Billing: Secure prominent film credits alongside VIP tickets to festival premieres and red carpet events.
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The Inspiration: Model your brand's placement after iconic, hit commercials that flawlessly blend modern products with history—like George Washington driving a Dodge Challenger across the battlefield.
With full financial support we aim to roll camera early 2027.
Next Steps
