One day prior to the theatrical release of Paramount Pictures’ Captive, moviegoers will gather in theaters for "Captive: Night of Purpose" to witness the dramatic true story of Ashley Smith and Brian Nichols. The event will take place Sept. 17 at 7 p.m. in more than 50 markets around the U.S.

Attendees will enjoy a private showing of the film and an exclusive panel discussion hosted by Gayle King with cast members David Oyelowo (Selma) and Kate Mara (House of Cards), producer Terry Botwick, Ashley Smith and Brian Nichols' mother, Claritha Nichols.

Based on the 2005 hostage-taking that drew the attention of the entire nation, Captive shows how Nichols held Smith in her apartment, where Smith turned to Rick Warren's book The Purpose Driven Life for guidance. In reading aloud from the book, Smith not only finds purpose in her life, but also helps Nichols find a more peaceful resolution to a harrowing situation.

"Captive is more than just an entertaining film," said producer Terry Botwick. "It is an authentic experience of an incident that could have ended tragically. Captive: Night of Purpose serves as a perfect opportunity for all of us to remember that no matter how dark a time we may be going through, there is a place to turn and find meaning. Ashley Smith's life was changed forever, and she lives a powerful life today, which reminds us that every life has purpose."

As September is National Recovery Month, in which the prevention, treatment and recovery from mental and substance abuse disorders is lauded, Captive: Night of Purpose is expected to be a catalyst for many organizations, churches and communities planning to attend to engage on topics of recovery, prevention, city transformation, faith and redemption.

Directed by veteran filmmaker Jerry Jameson, Captive is based on the Zondervan-published book Unlikely Angel by Ashley Smith with Stacy Mattingly.

Captive opens in theaters Sept. 18. Click here for the film’s website and here to learn more about Captive: Night of Purpose.

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