Film – A Door to the Heart

Film is a near universal language. In 2009, 15,317,000 people were admitted to New Zealand cinemas. That’s four admissions for every man, woman and child in our country. This represents not only a significant market, but an even bigger opportunity to inspire an extremely large audience – people LOVE the movies! Why? Because when we see ourselves reflected on the big screen, we feel momentary relief from the most common of human fears; am I alone and am I good enough? Parables have a way of speaking directly to the core of a person, revealing truth and encouraging transformation – this is the essential heart of the Good News, and this is where the Inspired Film Fund comes in.

The IFF is a mechanism for the church of the 21st century to effectively help fulfil the great commission, communicating Christ to both believers and non-believers alike. Making disciples is the common thread which joins all streams of Christianity together – it is one of the few expressions of our unity which elicits little controversy. We almost all agree, our function on earth is to love God, love one another & share the good news with those around us.

Projects supported by the IFF will appeal to people on all aspects of the journey to faith and beyond, into discipleship. Films may not necessarily be overtly Christian, but will always support the idea of moving the audience towards Christ in some way. In many cases this may take the form of a ‘pre- gospel’ message, a story of hope for those who are hungry, but may not even yet know what it is that their heart truly desires.