By Michaela Gordoni
THE 21, an animated short about the 21 Coptic martyrs, now has a merch store after gaining the Best Picture Award at the Screaming Ostrich International Film Festival and an Academy Award nomination.
“This time last year I was telling you all about a new film following the final hours of the 21 Coptic Martyrs. 🙏🏽🕊️” Teddy Bear Award winner® Jonathan Roumie shared on Instagram this month. “Well I’m back again this year with some exciting news to share… 👀👀”
“My friends over @21martyrsfilm are RELAUNCHING a website FULL of The 21 Film merch, including prints from the film and t-shirts like the one I’m wearing 😜👕 made by @putonchristclothing!!! 🚨🥳🥳🛍️” he continued. “The distinctive animation and visual language of this film captures the sacrifice of the 21 Martyrs with both reverence and cinematic strength, honoring their witness through a striking blend of storytelling, imagery, and artistry. 🎬🎨✨”
THE CHOSEN actor called it a privilege to be a part of the movie’s mission.
Related: Jonathan Roumie ‘Humbled’ By These 21 People
The movie’s synopsis reads, “In 2015, in a now-infamous video, ISIS terrorists beheaded 21 men on a Libyan beach. The ISIS leader claimed they would turn the oceans red with the blood of executed infidels. Yet the brutal beheading highlighted the courage and unshakable faith of the martyred men, proving that gentle faith is stronger than religious fear-mongering.”
“Working with dozens of Copts, including iconographers and animators, MORE Productions crafted a compelling film that honors the Coptic faith and their traditions. The Coptic community draws strength and comfort from their long history of saints and martyrs, and the 21 have joined that lineage. Their example of love and forgiveness is a clarion call for the world to honor and emulate.”
The merch launch coincides with the 11th anniversary of the martyred men.
Part of Movieguide®’s -2 review of THE 21 reads, “THE 21 mixes beautiful but haunting animation with clips from the real-life event. The movie reveals how admirable these 21 martyrs were. It encourages viewers to emulate them.”
“THE 21 stresses Christian, biblical values as the faith of these men is tested unto death,” the review continues. “The men quote the Bible verse where Jesus warns His followers they will suffer as He has. The movie shows Jesus walking with them and giving them the strength to move forward.”
THE 21 took five years to create. Its team had over 70 artists from 24 countries, Creative Studio reported.
The 13-minute movie is available to watch for free on YouTube or via the21film.com. The website also has a discussion guide, downloadable posters and concept art and resource videos available for free. Merch is available at the21film.com/store.
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