When The Chosen series began streaming in 2021, its new approach to story-telling and high quality production sparked worldwide interest in Christian and Christ-centred narratives which has produced award-winning films such as Sound of Freedom and Cabrini.
Witnessing the power of these stories and the demand from local communities, a local Sydney couple have launched The Angelus Film Festival which aims to bring Christian films from across the world to the parish.
The Angelus Film Festival, a first of its kind in the world, will give parishes the opportunity to host a selection of Christian films to evangelise its parishioners and the wider community.
“The event could consist of one movie being screened at a parish venue each week for one month,” said festival organisers.
“Films can be screened on evenings during the week or on the weekend and there will be a flexibility to cater for each parish as events unfold.
“Parishes, local Catholic schools and Catholic universities with large screens can all become a venue.”
With the launch falling within the Jubilee Year of Hope, The Angelus Film Festival will begin this year with a selection of films that carry the theme of “Hope.”
In doing so, organisers hope that with God’s grace this event will bring fruit to parish communities across Australia and be an inspiration for more film makers to make quality Christian films.
“This event is to bring communities together, entertain and bring people closer in their understanding and relationship with God,” said the Sydney couple.
“It is a great opportunity for the parish to welcome new people and meet families from the local schools which may not be involved in the parish.
“The Jesuits and St Maximillian Kolbe knew the power of theatre and film, as a way to entertain people and convey God’s truths.
“All people are made in the image and likeness of God and are attracted to the three transcendentals; truth, beauty and goodness, which are a reflection of God.
“Film is a great way to bring people to these three transcendentals.”
One of the main proponents for this initiative is the held belief that the many well-produced Christian films, which are currently not accessible to Australian audiences, will appeal to many parishioners here.
The call for films such as Sound of Freedom and The Chosen to be screened in cinemas shows a desire for these films in Australia.
And with the high costs that are involved in hosting a film at the cinemas, the parish is a more affordable option that bring these films to a Christian audience.
For those who may be interested and who have the permission of a parish priest, register your interest on the Angelus Film Festival website.
Registrations must be submitted by Friday 16 May.
Once parish venues have registered, parishes will be notified of the films to feature in June 2025.
For more information go to angelusfilmfestival.com.au.
