Mathias “Matt” Hardeman is on a mission to make films that challenge the status quo. His latest production, Pulpit Gangster, is a gripping drama-thriller that exposes the underbelly of corrupt religious leadership and its devastating impact on followers.

Hailing from Atlanta, Matt’s love for filmmaking started early. His first stage performance at age five sparked a passion that never faded. Over the years, he realized that film could be a powerful tool for change. “I love the journey of taking all the makings of a film from chaos to triumph,” he says. However, he admits that one of the biggest challenges is the waiting period for a good distributor to pick up a completed project.

Inspired by true events, Pulpit Gangster follows a young boy’s harrowing experience inside a cult-like religious group led by Pastor Arthur Allen Jr. The protagonist, Matt, is groomed into the pastor’s web of deceit, only to later find the courage to break free and fight for his family’s safety. The film highlights the dangers of blind faith and the necessity of questioning authority.

“I see myself continuing to put out more positive film projects in the future,” Matt shares. “My goal is to give people good, healthy therapy through my films—to help them cope with today’s problems.” His long-term vision is to use storytelling as a medium for healing and awareness.

Under Matthouse Productions, Pulpit Gangster is gaining recognition. Watch the official trailer below, and follow Matt’s journey on Instagram: @matt.house67.