Capturing the Power of Short Film

A short film is a visual story, told in a matter of minutes. This medium is growing in popularity among students and young professionals who hunger to experience a visually stimulating story. Often these artistic stories provide a springboard for discussion. 

In 2004, Jesus Film Project, in partnership with other Campus Crusade for Christ ministries, developed the Global Short Film Network. One component of GSFN is the Short Film Strategy. Team members collect films from filmmakers around the world that unlock the imagination. The Short Film Strategy utilizes a DVD which samples these films, including interviews with the filmmakers and interactive questions. The DVD can be used in small- or large-group settings.

After the audience watches the film, facilitators walk them through thought-provoking questions related to it. Next they associate a biblical story with the film and someone shares his or her testimony. This leads to the gospel message and an invitation to accept Christ.

Some countries have already launched this unique outreach strategy. In March 2007 Campus Crusade's ministry in Romania hosted a short film night for students. One ministry team member shared the following about the event:

"We organized an evening of short films with the theme: Spiritual Experiences in Film. Thirty minutes before the event started, the line at the entrance was more than 50 meters [long]. Two hundred and eighty seats were occupied . . . and every empty place that existed in the conference hall was filled. We decided to project the films outside the building, too, where at least 100 young people waited enduring the cold weather. . . . we decided to repeat the event the following evening and again the hall was full with people. . . "

Recently the Campus Crusade ministry in France also hosted a short film night. After facilitating an event on her campus, one team member said: "It was a blessed evening in every sense. . . . For me it will stand out as one of the most striking moments of this year's ministry. In small groups of four to five, students discussed some suggested questions for 15-20 minutes after watching short films arranged by theme."

The Short Film Strategy is also being used on campuses in the United States. Since media remains a dominant influence on today's young people, this strategy provides a creative environment to experience film and consider a relationship with Christ. As one staff member in France commented, "Movies are the language this generation uses to communicate."

For more information about the Short Film Strategy, visit

http://www.globalshortfilmnetwork.com

Website: http://www.GlobalShortFilmNetwork.com