The independent feature documentary, "Awake: The Life of Yogananda," has grossed well over $1 million in theatrical release and theatrical on-demand release via Gathr®, it was reported today.

The film -- exploring the life and teachings of Indian yoga master Paramahansa Yogananda, author of the best-selling classic Autobiography of a Yogi, which last month ranked number 4 on the La Times best-sellers list for non-fiction – was co-directed by Paola di Florio ("Speaking in Strings," "Home of the Brave") and Lisa Leeman ("Out of Faith," "Crazy Wisdom: The Life and Times of Chogyam Trungpa"), and produced and self-distributed by award-winning CounterPoint Films. Richard Abramowitz of Abramorama spearheaded the theatrical component of the release.

“The commitment, professionalism and enthusiasm of the 'Awake' team were essential elements in the extraordinary reception this film received in the theatrical marketplace,” says Abramowitz. “Audiences showed up in force from the first day, and continue to do so in great numbers four months later. It’s a testimony to the power of the film and the community that has embraced it. I feel privileged to be a part of it.”

"Awake: The Life of Yogananda" premiered theatrically on October 10, 2014 in New York. The film has been shown across the country in over 100 theaters, as well as in more than 150 screenings via the Gathr® “Theatrical On Demand” platform.

“We attribute the success of the film to a combination of the timeliness of the subject matter and the hybrid distribution model that we have embraced,” says "Awake" producer Peter Rader. “As part of our strategy we have relied heavily on grass roots support and the booming interest in Yoga today, as well as the flexibility of an on-demand platform like Gathr to appeal to potential movie-goers across the country, not just those in major markets.”

The successful grassroots efforts is evidenced by the film’s robust performance in certain markets with significant community outreach. As an example, in November there were times "Awake" out-grossed "Interstellar" in weekend numbers at several venues, including the Sundance Sunset in Los Angeles and The Texas Theatre in Dallas.

“It’s profoundly gratifying to see how the message of this film is reaching people of all backgrounds across the country, and soon the world,” says Paola di Florio, Co-Writer and Co-Director along with Lisa Leeman.

“Awake has broken the mold by appealing to diverse audiences with its experiential, meditative journey and its message of empowerment,” adds Rader. “We now have plans for international distribution, to be announced shortly.”

For more information about "Awake: The Life of Yogananda," visit Here...