Recognizing Your Connection to God with Beth Caulfield – ‘Conceivable’

Conceivable tells the story of 45-year-old Brielle, a woman who becomes pregnant unexpectedly and must decide whether to terminate the pregnancy. It’s based on the life experiences of Beth Caulfield, the film’s writer, producer, and director.

(Note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity. Watch the full conversation above.)   

Nyah Phillips: Tell me about the origins of this story. Why did you decide to make this film now?  

Beth Caulfield: It’s inspired by an experience I had in my mid-40s of a surprise pregnancy. I wanted to share what that experience is like and validate it for others who are going through it in a way that entertains people and inspires their faith.  

Phillips: Is the big moment of decision in the film when Brielle, the main character, hears from God based on a real moment in your personal life?  

Caulfield: It really is. I really was in that location. I really was in a desperate state. And I really did see that amazing sign from God that calmed my heart. And there are some wonderful support people around me who are helping me do it.  

Phillips: Can you describe what that was like for you?  

Caulfield: So often we think, “Where are you, God? Why aren’t you giving me the answers? Why aren’t you opening the path?” And as you walk through life, you start realizing that the signs are there—we just have to be still, listen, and go where they’re leading us.  

Sometimes you have these amazing breakthrough moments, whether it’s hearing God’s voice, having a dream, a vision. I can’t say I’ve had millions of those experiences, but I’ve had enough to crave them. I think that’s what abundant life is. I think it’s recognizing your connection to God and hearing those reassurances or an admonishment. The moment you’re talking about was an incredible moment. The day it happened, I took a picture with my camera and have shared that with other people at times to encourage them.  

Phillips: Why did you decide to play the role of the controversial friend in the film?  

Caulfield: I was not planning on acting in the film. I loved writing the role for a number of reasons. And then something happened with the actress who was supposed to play her, and we recognized that we needed to go another direction. Someone working on the film said, “You should do it.” That was a leap of faith, but it was a wonderful experience, because I knew exactly how I wanted that character to go.  

She, like the rest of us, is a flawed individual who needs God’s grace. And it’s not unavailable to her, no matter what she says or does. I also enjoyed the character because she’s based on a conglomeration of people I knew. She represents more secular thinking, while still claiming Christianity. In some circles, she would be called a nominal Christian. But she is full of heart, and I think it’s important to show that complexity. Everything isn’t just the good guys versus the bad guys. We’re complex individuals. I wanted to show the characters in the film growing in Christ, and I think you saw Sandra grow a bit there too.  

Phillips: What was it like working with your daughter as an actress in the film?  

Caulfield: That was an amazing gift from God. Just like I wasn’t supposed to be in the movie, I was not planning on putting her in the movie. She had been taking some acting classes, does school plays, and has an interest in acting. She had actually taken an acting class with Jana, who co-directed and was the lead of the movie.  

As we were working on getting the film right, we recognized that she got the part better than anyone else we were interviewing. It was basically her playing her older sister. So we cast her in the film. It brought us so close to be involved in the complex experience of making a film. She is the daughter that the film is about. For her to understand that story more was an incredible part of it.  

Phillips: What do you hope audiences take away from this film?  

Caulfield: First, for those who can relate to it—and there are a lot of people who understand this story from personal experience—that they would feel validated in their feelings. Second, to grow compassion and supportiveness for women and families going through an unplanned pregnancy. Third, to open conversations. There are a lot of different views shown in this film, and I did that intentionally to encourage dialogue. Finally, that the film overall models that when life throws you curveballs, seek God and he’ll make your path straight. The last bit is the hope to save lives.  

Conceivable comes to select theaters on October 16th. For more information, visit https://www.conceivablethemovie.com/.