New Movies: One by One (2024) by Steven F. Zambo: A Journey of Redemption and Unexpected Ministry
- dailyentertainment95
- Jun 6
- 9 min read
One by One is a powerful, true-story drama directed by Steven F. Zambo, following the extraordinary life of David Rosenau (Lance Brown). From his dark past as an undertaker and undercover narcotics and homicide detective, David's life was defined by danger and deception. However, a divine calling shifts his path into unexpected ministry, leading him to a small Florida congregation of senior citizens. Together, they embark on a profound mission to bring light, hope, and transformation to their community, one life at a time, showcasing the power of faith and the unexpected paths to redemption.
Short Summary
One by One is a compelling true-story drama about David Rosenau, a former detective who transitions from a life steeped in danger to an unexpected ministry. Called to lead a small congregation of senior citizens, David and his new flock embark on a mission to bring hope and transformation to their community, illustrating that every life is worth saving and that God's plan can lead to surprising redemption.
Link IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28238574/
Link to watch: https://www.justwatch.com/us/movie/one-by-one-2024 (US), https://www.justwatch.com/ca/movie/one-by-one-2024 (Canada), https://www.justwatch.com/uk/movie/one-by-one-2024 (UK), https://www.justwatch.com/fr/film/one-by-one (France)
Detailed Summary
Steven F. Zambo's One by One is a riveting and true-story drama that chronicles the remarkable journey of David Rosenau, portrayed by Lance Brown. The film delves into the darkest corners of David's past, beginning with his career as an undertaker before transitioning into years as a highly dangerous undercover narcotics and homicide detective. His life was steeped in deception, trials, and constant peril, pushing him to his physical and emotional limits. However, the narrative takes a profound turn as David experiences a divine calling to ministry. Expecting to lead a youth congregation, he is instead called to a small, unassuming group of senior citizens in Florida. Against all expectations, David and this unexpected congregation embark on a powerful mission: to bring light, hope, and transformative change to their community, one individual life at a time, demonstrating the profound impact of faith, resilience, and the belief in universal worth.
Plot Summary
From Darkness to Calling: The film traces David Rosenau's unique professional history, from an undertaker to a perilous career as an undercover narcotics and homicide detective, immersing him in danger and deception.
An Unexpected Path: Despite a life steeped in the shadows, David experiences a spiritual calling to ministry, intending to work with youth. However, his path leads him to a small congregation primarily composed of senior citizens in Florida.
Community Transformation: David, alongside this unexpected flock, faces the profound challenge of bringing hope, light, and transformation to their local community.
One Life at a Time: The core of their mission is focused on individual impact, emphasizing the belief that every person is worth saving and that small acts can lead to significant change.
Journey of Redemption: The narrative underscores David's personal journey of redemption and spiritual growth, showing how trusting in a higher plan can lead to unexpected and life-changing results, both for himself and those he serves.
Key Characters: The film features various characters, including David Rosenau (Lance Brown) and a "curmudgeon" named Joanne (D Horowitz), whose personal journey is explored later in the movie.
Director's Vision
While detailed information about Steven F. Zambo's specific director's vision for One by One is not extensively publicized, his previous work, such as Mister Scrooge to See You, suggests a focus on lighthearted, entertaining follow-ups to classic tales with strong moral or spiritual undertones. For One by One, the vision likely centered on:
Authentic Storytelling: Presenting a "true and riveting story" in a way that resonates with audiences.
Themes of Faith and Redemption: Emphasizing the transformative power of trusting in God's plan and the journey of personal and community redemption.
Highlighting Unexpected Paths: Showcasing how divine plans can lead individuals down unforeseen paths that ultimately bring about profound impact.
Focus on Human Worth: Conveying the message that "every person is worth saving" and that individual lives have meaning.
Emotional Depth: Aiming to evoke both laughter and tears, as indicated by early viewer reviews, suggesting a desire for a touching and emotionally impactful narrative.
Themes
Faith and Divine Plan: A central theme is the belief in a higher power's plan for individuals, even when their personal expectations differ, leading to unexpected and meaningful outcomes.
Redemption and Transformation: The film explores the profound journey of redemption, not just for the protagonist David, but also for the community he serves, emphasizing personal and collective change.
Hope in Unexpected Places: It highlights finding hope and purpose in unconventional settings, such as a former detective leading a senior citizen congregation to effect change.
The Value of Every Life: A core message is the intrinsic worth of every individual and the power of focusing on changing "one life at a time."
Resilience: The narrative showcases David Rosenau's resilience in overcoming a dangerous past and adapting to a new, challenging, yet ultimately fulfilling path.
Community and Connection: The film emphasizes the power of a small, dedicated community to make a significant impact on their surroundings through collective effort and shared purpose.
Key Success Factors
True Story Appeal: As a film based on a "true and riveting story," it has an inherent appeal for audiences interested in real-life narratives of transformation and faith.
Inspirational Message: The film's core message of faith, redemption, and the power of individual impact is designed to be uplifting and emotionally resonant, particularly with audiences seeking positive and meaningful content.
Strong Lead Performance: Early viewer reviews specifically praise Lance Brown's portrayal of David Rosenau, indicating that a compelling lead performance is a significant draw for the film.
Emotional Connection: The aim to evoke both laughter and tears, as noted by viewers, suggests the film successfully creates a strong emotional connection, making its message more impactful.
Niche Audience Engagement: The film's spiritual and inspirational themes likely resonate strongly with faith-based audiences, who represent a dedicated and supportive market.
Reviews
Reviews for One by One (2024) are primarily from early viewers and Amazon customers, who have given it very positive feedback.
Amazon Customer Reviews: The film holds a strong 5.0 out of 5 stars based on several reviews on Amazon.com.
Elio (May 8, 2025): Described it as an "Amazing movie! Such a great story. We really enjoyed it. Made us both laugh and cry. Very touching message. We highly recommend!"
Prudence (April 28, 2025): Praised the lead actor, stating, "Lance Brown, who plays the lead role of David Rosenau, is a SUPERBLY gifted actor! 10/10! Highly recommend!"
D Horowitz (April 23, 2025): (An actress in the film) commented, "WOW, funny, scary, heart-warming, TRUE story! I pray you will be blessed by this film, and know that your life has meaning, even if you impact just one person."
Overall Summary: Early reviews for One by One (2024) are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the film's amazing story, emotional impact, and the strong performance of its lead actor. Viewers found it both entertaining and deeply touching, strongly recommending it for its heart-warming message and ability to evoke both laughter and tears.
Production Summary
One by One is an independent drama based on a true story, produced by Burning Bulb Publishing and copyrighted by Salty Earth Pictures, with filming and post-production completed for its 2024-2025 release.
Production Companies
Burning Bulb Publishing
Salty Earth Pictures (copyright holder)
Sales Companies
Sales information for One by One (2024) indicates that the film is available through platforms like Amazon Video and Apple TV, suggesting direct digital sales. For physical media, it is distributed via channels that sell Blu-ray and DVD formats, such as Amazon.
Distribution Companies
Amazon Video (Digital streaming/purchase)
Filmzie (Streaming)
Apple TV (Digital streaming/purchase)
Physical media distributors (e.g., via Amazon for Blu-ray).
Release date on streaming
One by One (2024) became available to rent, purchase, or stream on platforms like Amazon Video, Filmzie, and Apple TV starting around October 1, 2024.
Theatrical Release
One by One (2024) had a limited theatrical release starting on October 1, 2024. Its primary release format appears to be digital and physical media, with a Blu-ray release dated January 21, 2025.
Why to recommend this movie
Inspiring True Story: The film is based on a real-life journey of redemption and unexpected calling, offering a deeply inspirational narrative that resonates with themes of faith and purpose.
Heartwarming and Emotional: Reviews highlight its ability to evoke both laughter and tears, making it a touching and emotionally engaging experience for viewers.
Focus on Individual Impact: It carries a powerful message that every person's life has meaning and that even small acts can bring significant transformation, making it highly uplifting.
Strong Lead Performance: Lance Brown's portrayal of David Rosenau has been praised as "superbly gifted," anchoring the film with a believable and compelling central character.
Positive and Uplifting Content: For audiences seeking content that promotes faith, hope, and the power of human connection, this film offers a refreshing and positive viewing experience.
Why to Watch Movie
If you enjoy true-story dramas with a spiritual message: The film delivers a compelling real-life account centered on faith, redemption, and unexpected ministry.
For an emotionally resonant experience: It aims to make viewers both laugh and cry, offering a heartfelt and touching narrative that explores the human spirit's capacity for change.
To be inspired by a story of overcoming adversity: David Rosenau's journey from a dangerous past to a life of service provides a powerful example of transformation.
If you appreciate character-driven films with strong performances: Lance Brown's acting is noted as a key strength, bringing depth and authenticity to the protagonist.
For a film that reinforces positive values: The movie's core message about the worth of every person and the power of helping others resonates with uplifting themes.
Movie Trend
Faith-Based Inspirational Dramas (True Stories): One by One fits squarely into the growing trend of faith-based inspirational dramas, particularly those based on true stories. These films often focus on themes of redemption, spiritual journeys, and the transformative power of faith in overcoming adversity. They typically cater to a dedicated audience within the religious community and are increasingly finding distribution through digital platforms in addition to limited theatrical releases.
Social Trend
Emphasis on Personal Redemption and Community Impact: The film taps into the social trend of valuing personal stories of redemption and the power of individuals or small groups to create positive community impact. In an often-complex world, narratives that highlight transformation, second chances, and the tangible effects of grassroots efforts resonate with a desire for hope and demonstrable change. This trend also aligns with an interest in authentic, human-centered stories that emphasize moral and spiritual growth.
Final Verdict
One by One is a heartwarming and inspirational drama that effectively brings to life the remarkable true story of David Rosenau's journey from a perilous past to an unforeseen calling in ministry. Directed by Steven F. Zambo, the film, while likely operating on an independent budget, succeeds in delivering a powerful message of faith, redemption, and the profound impact of connecting with others "one by one." Its strength lies in its emotional sincerity and Lance Brown's praised performance, making it a compelling watch for audiences seeking uplifting and morally resonant narratives, particularly within the faith-based genre.
Recommendations for film makers
Authenticity in True Stories: When adapting true stories, prioritize the authenticity and emotional core of the narrative to resonate deeply with audiences, even if working with independent resources.
Focus on Core Message: Clearly define and consistently reinforce the central message of your film. For One by One, the themes of faith, redemption, and individual worth are paramount and well-integrated.
Invest in Strong Lead Performances: A compelling lead actor can significantly elevate an independent film, drawing viewers into the story and making the emotional journey more impactful.
Understand Your Audience: Recognize and cater to specific audience demographics, such as faith-based communities, who can be highly supportive and appreciative of content tailored to their values.
Leverage Digital Distribution: For independent films, utilize a multi-platform digital release strategy (streaming, VOD) to maximize reach and accessibility beyond traditional theatrical models.
Recommendations for Movie Industry
Support Independent and Faith-Based Cinema: Continue to recognize and support the growing segment of independent and faith-based films, as they cater to a significant and often underserved audience demographic.
Explore Diverse Storytelling: Encourage narratives that highlight personal transformation, resilience, and positive community impact, as these themes resonate broadly and offer valuable perspectives.
Value Emotional Resonance: Recognize that films with strong emotional depth and inspiring messages can achieve significant success and cultural impact, regardless of blockbuster status.
Champion Niche Content: Invest in films that cater to specific interests and values, understanding that a strong connection with a dedicated audience can be more sustainable than aiming for universal appeal.
Promote Stories of Hope: In an often-challenging world, the industry should continue to back stories that offer hope, redemption, and the belief in humanity's capacity for good, providing uplifting content.
Final Conclusions
One by One is a testament to the power of true stories and the enduring impact of faith, redemption, and individual human connection. Directed by Steven F. Zambo, this drama compellingly portrays David Rosenau's remarkable journey, demonstrating that profound purpose can be found in the most unexpected places and that every life holds the potential for transformation. While it serves a specific audience, its universal themes of hope and the value of helping others resonate broadly. This film stands as a heartfelt and inspiring example of independent cinema, proving that a strong message and genuine emotional depth can create a truly memorable viewing experience.
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