Two feature films directed by LMU alumni were in the top 10 at the box office this weekend: Soul Surfer, directed by Sean McNamara '84, and Water for Elephants, directed by Francis Lawrence '91.
Soul Surfer is based on the true story of Bethany Hamilton, a competitive surfer who lost her left arm in a shark attack at the age of 15. Hamilton returned to the waves in less than a month and continues to compete on the professional circuit. The film came out on April 8 and has remained popular with audiences.
Water for Elephants is based on the best-selling novel of the same name. It stars Reese Witherspoon and Robert Pattinson as workers in a Depression-era traveling circus. Below is an interview with director Lawrence and Loyolan A&E Editor Emily Rome.