There was a time, not-so-long ago, when a movie like this was more than likely destined for the home video market directly, without a theatrical release. But times have changed, with several options available today to filmmakers and producers, than there ever have been, affording them the opportunity to open their films in theaters, and doing so without robbing a bank.

Take the AMC Independent initiative for example, launched 3 years ago, to name one.

Last we heard of Ja Rule, he was doing time behind bars (nearly two years) for illegal gun possession, and tax evasion. But he’s a free man now (as free a man as the rest of us are), and stars in an upcoming indie feature film that will open on over 280 screens on October 18.

High Top Releasing will release the drama I’m In Love With A Church Girl, which follows a man with a criminal past, who many aren’t convinced he’s completely left behind, who meets and falls for a “church girl” which creates some turmoil as his past life catches up to him, and he’s forced to make some hard decisions about his future.

It’s a different type of role for Mr Rule, who’s usually playing more 1-dimensional “thuggish” characters on screen, and not what appears to be a far more complex dramatic role in this new film.

I’m In Love With A Church Girl is based on screenwriter Galley Molina’s own life, and co-stars Adrienne Bailon (as the “church girl) of Cheetah Girls and 3LW fame.

Stephen Baldwin, Vincent Pastore and Michael Madsen round out the starring cast.

The film is directed by Steve Race, and produced by Molina and Grammy-winning Christian singer Israel Houghton.

It opens on more than 280 screens on October 18, and should appeal to the pious crowd. To find out if it’s coming to a theater near you, click HERE.

Here’s its trailer: