A 'night of forgiveness': Idaho native produces film that inspires nationwide event

IDAHO FALLS - It's been eight years since Chris Williams had his life shattered in a single moment.

As the Utah father drove home from a night of fun with his family, a 17-year-old drunk driver plowed into his vehicle - killing Williams' wife, his unborn baby, his 9-year-old daughter, and his 11-year-old son.

As he sat in his demolished vehicle, Williams says he committed to forgive the teenager who had just caused the deaths of his family members.

Now, Idaho Falls native Dan LaPray has produced a full-length feature film called "Just Let Go" that tells the story of Williams and his journey of forgiveness.

"If you feel like you need to forgive someone or you feel like you're ready to be forgiven, then this film will change you," said LaPray during an interview with EastIdahoNews.com.

“Just Let Go” premieres Monday, Sept. 28, in a unique nationwide event that organizers are calling “A Night of Forgiveness.”

On that night, “Just Let Go” will be available in about 500 movie theaters across the country, including Edwards Cinemas in Idaho Falls and Fat Catz in Rexburg. Additionally, a special program will originate from Ogden’s Egyptian Theater, involving Mpho Tutu, the daughter of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the executive director of the Desmond & Leah Tutu Legacy Foundation, along with musical performances by pastor and Christian recording artist Lincoln Brewster and Ryan Innes.

After the screening, a panel discussion will be held featuring Williams, actors Sam Sorbo and Brenda Vacarro and other experts who have studied forgiveness.

Organizers hope the event will create a national discussion about the power of forgiveness.

"If you're afraid of forgiving or of being forgiven, then this could be tough for you," said LaPray. "It will affect you. I can promise you."