Christian faith and its remarkable depths displayed in new film ‘The 21’

Introduction: The Film’s Purpose and Creation

"The 21," a poignant film, recounts the tragic martyrdom of 21 Coptic Christians by ISIS, offering a powerful narrative of faith and resilience. Producer Mandi Hart and director Tod Polson aimed to honor these martyrs by blending animation with ISIS footage, creating a haunting yet hopeful visual experience. Hart emphasizes the men’s unwavering faith, noting, "They had nanoseconds to save themselves but remained true to the end." The film, presented at the International Religious Freedom Summit, serves as a reminder of the global shock and horror caused by the event, while also showcasing the martyrs’ diligence and faith.

Background: The Martyrs and Their Story

The 21 martyrs were simple laborers from Egypt, working in Libya, kidnapped by ISIS and demanded to renounce Christianity. Despite over a month of torture, they refused to deny Jesus, exemplifying a faith that inspired even their captors. The film highlights their daily prayers and commitment to their beliefs, with one martyr requesting to be the last executed, demonstrating extraordinary courage. Hart reflects on their depth of faith, stating, "It’s just remarkable," making their story a testament to steadfastness under extreme duress.

Film Style: Animation and Iconography

The film uniquely employs Orthodox iconography, using animation to soften the horror while enhancing hope. This style, traditional in Coptic churches, symbolizes divine presence, with imagery of saints and Jesus. Hart explains, "We wanted to reflect the cultural distinctiveness of the Coptic tradition," using colors and symbols to create an icon of faith. The interplay of animation with ISIS footage underscores the clash between brutality and divine light, making the film a powerful visual narrative of hope and sacrifice.

Supernatural Elements: Divine Intervention

The film introduces supernatural elements, with accounts from ISIS members describing shadowy, sword-bearing figures accompanying the martyrs. One ISIS member, terrified by these apparitions, fled and later converted to Christianity. Director Tod Polson finds this inspiring, stating the sacrifice was both heartbreaking and uplifting. These divine interventions suggest that on the sandy beach, a celestial battle unfolded, offering solace to the martyrs and a testament to their unwavering faith.

Legacy: Enduring Faith and Persecution

The Coptic Church, one of the oldest Christian communities, has faced 2,000 years of persecution, producing millions of martyrs. These 21 men embody this legacy, their story a beacon of hope in a world where Christianity is increasingly marginalized. Hart notes their forgiveness of their killers, echoing Christ’s words on the cross. Their faith, passed down through generations, continues to inspire, proving that even in darkness, light prevails.

Message of Forgiveness and Unity

The film concludes with a message of forgiveness and unity, as the martyrs requested divine pardon for their killers. Hart shares a moving insight from Archbishop Angaelos, envisioning the former ISIS convert being welcomed into heaven by the martyrs. This story transcends tragedy, offering a universal message of forgiveness, love, and the transformative power of faith. "The 21" stands as a testament to the enduring strength of faith in the face of evil, inspiring all who encounter it.