Principal photography has commenced in Los Angeles on the inspirational drama The Least Among You starring Louis Gossett Jr and newcomer Cedric Sanders.

Mark Young wrote and is directing the story of a promising African-American student whose early dreams of escaping ghetto life are dashed only for him to discover a mentor while on parole at a seminary.

Julia Verdin is producing the Witenuckle Films and Rough Diamond Productions project, which also stars William Devane and Lauren Holly.

'Sometimes it takes losing a dream to see one's destiny,' Young said. 'Our team of artists and investors are enthused to support a film that offers hope and a sense of destiny to a underserved audience.'

'I was attracted to this movie because of its message and provocative ideas,' Verdin said. 'Whatever happens in our lives we each can take responsibility for our choices in how we deal with things and how we move forward.'