New film captures Catholic Philadelphia

Just in time for the arrival of Pope Francis, local filmmaker and historian Sam Katz has put out a new movie - and the subject couldn't be more appropriate.

The 75-minute documentary, "Urban Trinity: The Story of Catholic Philadelphia," explores the history of Catholic immigrants who came to Philadelphia seeking religious freedom and a better life.

Katz said he and his team first discussed the idea for a film some years ago, but after the pope's visit was announced last year, they decided to get it made.

"Could there be a better moment to tell this story? All Philadelphians will see aspects of our gritty character in these stories," said Katz, the executive producer.

The documentary tells the history of Catholics in Philadelphia from the late 18th century to today. Philly was largely a Quaker-Anglican-Presbyterian city until the late 19th century, and the growing Catholic population met discrimination and violence in the 1830s and 1940s.

"In an immigrant city, 'Urban Trinity' follows the harsh realities of coming to an unwelcoming place and the role that the church played in finding acceptance," Katz said.

Greater Philadelphia Film Office executive director Sharon Pinkenson called the film "unique" and "impactful."

It's being presented in three parts on 6ABC, with parts 1 and 2 airing back-to-back tonight at 7; part 3 is airing at midnight Sunday. It also will be screened this week in Philly during the World Meeting of Families Film Festival.

Speaking of films, here's an update on the opening of "Time Out of Mind," starring Richard Gere. It will now open Oct. 2 at the Ritz at the Bourse (400 Ranstead St.).

OUT AND ABOUT

Bill Murray missed the Emmys on Sunday night because he was in South Philly for his son's wedding at St. Monica's Church (2422 S. 17th St.). Sources say they spotted him Sunday at Il Pittore (2025 Sansom St.), enjoying dinner with family and friends. I hear his large group dined at the communal table, coming in late and closing the place.

Mariah Carey was seen over the weekend at Six Flags Great Adventure, in Jackson, N.J. I hear the pop star and her ex-husband, Nick Cannon, are big roller-coaster fans. They reportedly were there with their two kids, and park security officers made commoners get off the rides so Carey and crew could ride solo.

Speaking of the Emmys, Fox 29's Joyce Evans received one in the health category for her story "Waiting to Live" at Saturday night's Mid-Atlantic Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences awards.

"It is truly an honor to win the Emmy for Karlene Novotny's story.  Her spirit, her family, her struggle, so touching that we all can learn something about love, hope, and humanity. I can't wait to tell the happy ending," Evans said of her award.

Comcast SportsNet and the Comcast Network got 11 Mid-Atlantic Emmys, the most of any network. The launch campaign for "Breakfast on Broad" on the Comcast Network also won an Emmy. Email: dehuffj@phillynews.com