This undated photo provided by Autumn VR Inc. and VRWERX, LLC, shows a production still from "Jesus VR - The Story of Christ." (Autumn VR Inc. and VRWERX, LLC via AP)
LOS ANGELES (AP) --
The story of Jesus Christ is coming to virtual reality for the first time.
Autumn Productions and VRWerx announced plans Wednesday to release the live-action film "Jesus VR — The Story of Christ" on all major VR platforms this Christmas.
The 90-minute movie will depict such events as Jesus' birth, baptism, crucifixion and resurrection in 360 degrees. "Jesus VR" was filmed in 4K resolution on location in Matera, Italy.
The movie will be available for rent or purchase for VR systems such as Samsung Gear, Oculus Rift, PlayStation VR and HTC Vive
The film is directed by David Hansen and stars Tim Fellingham as Jesus. "The Passion of the Christ" executive producer Enzo Sisti is among the producers.
VRWerx previously created a VR game based on the "Paranormal Activity" film franchise.
Pepsi soft drinks in plastic bottles are on sale at a grocery store in New York on Weds., Nov. 15, 2023. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, File)
PepsiCo confirmed Friday that it's ending some of its diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, even as rival Coca-Cola voiced support for its own inclusion efforts.
In a memo sent to employees, PepsiCo CEO Ramon Laguarta said the company will no longer set goals for minority representation in its managerial roles or supplier base. The company will also align its sponsorships to events and groups that promote business growth, he said.
Laguarta wrote that inclusion remains important to PepsiCo, whose brands include Gatorade, Lay's potato chips, Doritos, Mountain Dew as well as Pepsi. The Purchase, New York-based company's chief diversity officer will transition to a broader role focused on employee engagement, leadership development and ensuring an inclusive culture, he said.
Since President Donald Trump returned to the White House last month, U.S. government agencies, companies and schools have rushed to reevaluate policies and programs they adopted with the goal of reducing discrimination against members of minority groups, women and LGBTQ+ people.
Trump ended DEI programs within the federal government and has warned schools to end DEI programs or risk losing federal money.
PepsiCo's rollback came as Coca-Cola reaffirmed support for its DEI efforts.
In its annual report, Atlanta-based Coke warned that its business could be negatively affected if it is unable to attract employees that reflect its broad range of customers.
"Failure to maintain a corporate culture that fosters innovation, collaboration and inclusion โฆ could disrupt our operations and adversely affect our business and our future success," the company said.
Coca-Cola has set a goal of having women in 50% of its senior leadership roles by... Read More
