Five Mile River Films announces it’s latest project, "Have No Fear: The Life of Pope John Paul II" which is slated to air on Thursday, December 1st on the ABC network at 8:00 P.M. Eastern Time. Heading the cast is Thomas Kretschmann ("The Pianist"; "King Kong") who will portray Pope John Paul II. Rounding out the international line-up is Bruno Ganz ("Wings of Desire", "Downfall") playing Cardinal Stefan Wyszynski and Joaquim de Almeida ("24") as Salvadoran Archbishop Oscar Romero.

Based on a story by Michael Hirst, Lorenzo Minoli and Judd Parkin, the script was written by Michael Hirst ("Elizabeth") and Judd Parkin.

Exploring both the very public moments of Pope John Paul’s reign as well as providing an intimate glimpse into his earlier years - from the loss of his parents at a young age to watching his Jewish childhood friends being deported by the Nazis to his surprising love of theater - the film offers a full portrayal of Pope John Paul’s great humanity.

Directed by Jeff Bleckner ("Serving in Silence: The Margarethe Cammermeyer Story"), shooting began in August 2005 in Lithuania and will wrap in mid-September in Rome. Executive Producer Lorenzo Minoli has once again assembled a talented crew, bringing authenticity to the sets, costumes and make-up - a hallmark of all Five Mile River Films productions.