Faith on Film: 5 Must-See Christian Video & Films
August 28, 2024
In an office full of movie nerds, or for a more endearing name, film bros, a lot of movie titles get thrown around on a daily basis. But one category of movies seems to be skimmed over, maybe because we have exhausted the topic or because there isn’t enough hype surrounding them. So I figured, after Ryan’s 6 Movies & TV Shows That Changed the Industry Forever and the team’s Favorite Halloween Movies, I should probably build some excitement about the must-watch Christian video. Notice how I didn’t say movies – I couldn’t be that exclusive. And soon, you’ll find out why.
Why am I qualified to speak on such a subject, you might ask?
Although my years of being a film enthusiast are relatively short in comparison to my coworkers and friends, I have the honorary title “Film-bro in Training” in my college film club, which is made up of Richard Linklater, Martin Scorsese, and Damien Chazelle lovers (shoutout to Dante and Aileen for their favorite directors). So yeah, it’s pretty legit. The club also introduced me to the app Letterboxd, and if you don’t know what that is, you probably aren’t a real film buff (or you’re just old-school). So, after climbing the cinema connoisseur ranks and devotedly reviewing every movie I have watched since May 2023, I believe I am qualified to give my hot takes on the movie side of things.
On the Christian side of things, I am also well-versed (see what I did there?). Upon reviewing these films, I will draw inspiration from Psalm 101:3, which says: “I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless. I hate the work of those who fall away; it shall not cling to me.” These are some bold words. Now, let’s put them to the test! Without further adieu, here are my Top 5 Christian Video & Films.
Christian Video Top Five
5. God’s Not Dead (2014)
Coming in at #5, we have God’s Not Dead.
Christian Video Synopsis:
This Christian movie follows the story of college freshman Josh Wheaton, who finds his faith challenged by his philosophy professor, Jeffrey Radisson. Professor Radisson, an atheist, demands that his students sign a declaration that “God is dead” to pass the course. Josh refuses, and Radisson challenges him to defend his belief in the existence of God in front of the class. (Now that’s what we call a stellar hook.) Throughout the film, Josh presents a series of arguments to counter Radisson’s claims, engaging in debates that explore faith, science, and philosophy. Meanwhile, the lives of other characters, including a Muslim girl facing persecution for her faith, a journalist diagnosed with cancer, and a Chinese student grappling with his newfound beliefs, interweave with Josh’s journey.
SPOILERS AHEAD: Skip the next paragraph if you want to remain unspoiled. Which, by the way, is a Christian virtue. Purity of mind, that is.
The film culminates in a powerful classroom showdown, where Josh’s arguments and the support of his fellow students challenge Radisson’s atheism. The movie ends with a call for viewers to text “God’s not dead” to spread the message of faith. I personally am a fiend for inspirational movies that end with a call to action, although the text idea is sort of cheesy.
Ranking Reasoning:
I first watched this movie before my freshman year of college, and part of me wondered if I would have a similar college experience to Josh. I was mentally taking notes of all of the arguments I could store in the back of my brain to someday use against my atheist professors. Now, I am 2 years into college and have only had one professor who openly stated that he was an atheist. But I have also had an openly Christian professor as well, who actually taught science! That makes the Christian-to-Atheist scale level at the moment, but we’ll see what my last 2 years of college bring. Who knows, I may have to rewatch this movie to polish up my defense of God’s existence.
Anyways, back to the movie. Aside from the fact that this movie felt like it could apply to my life at the time, this movie did a deep dive into some topics that I find very interesting, such as philosophy and Christian Apologetics (the defending of the faith). Along the creation of this movie, someone probably asked, “How can we create a Christian film that showcases a real life example of someone defending the faith?” And that is a really cool thing to think about. Often, you see books and hear lectures on these topics, but rarely do you watch a cinematic portrayal of Christian philosophy displayed in a way that virtually anyone could understand. Applause to Harold Cronk; you really knew what you were doing. Maybe we can collaborate one day.
4. Cabrini (2023)
Next in the ranks is the new Cabrini movie.
Christian Video Synopsis:
Arriving in New York City in 1889, Italian immigrant Francesca Cabrini is greeted by disease, crime and impoverished children. She soon sets off on a daring mission to convince the mayor to secure housing and health care for society’s most vulnerable. With broken English and poor health, Cabrini uses her entrepreneurial mind to build an empire of hope, unlike anything the world has ever seen.
Ranking Reasoning:
This movie is a must-see for anyone who might be pursuing business. It is the story of overcoming challenges with God’s help when literally the whole world is against you. I mean, Saint Francesca Cabrini began her mission as a foreign woman in a very unsafe city with no funds and no support besides her devoted sisters, and somehow, she managed to grow her business start-up without hardly speaking the main language of her potential investors. Her story makes it seem a lot easier to be an entrepreneur with all of the tools we can access in the digital world of today.
This movie had a lot of cinematic shots, especially playing with darkness and light. Angel Studios did a fantastic job of educating the public on Cabrini’s story, as before I saw the movie, I didn’t even know of the existence of this awesome saint. However, the one criticism I have heard from Christian circles is that the film neglected to show Cabrini’s prayer life, possibly in an attempt to make the film more inclusive of all audiences.
3. I Can Only Imagine (2018)
The third movie on my must-watch list is I Can Only Imagine, which is based on a true story.
Christian Video Synopsis:
Growing up in Greenville, Texas, Bart Millard suffers physical and emotional abuse at the hands of his father, Arthur. When Arthur becomes terminally ill, he finds redemption by embracing his faith and rediscovering his love for his son. Years later, Bart’s troubled childhood and mended relationship with his dad inspires him to write the hit song “I Can Only Imagine” as singer of the Christian band MercyMe.
Ranking Reasoning:
I really like the testimony aspect of this movie. I had heard the song “I Can Only Imagine” countless times (shoutout Life 102.5), but I had no idea what the story behind it was. Like most of the other Christian films I have talked about, this one had a purpose: to evangelize through media. And a testimony story like Bart’s is a perfect way to intrigue a few different niche audiences, one of them being songwriters. The creative choices that the directors made, along with the overall plot, made this film very enjoyable and inspirational.
2. Dare to Believe (2023)
Coming in at #2 is Dare to Believe.
Christian Video Synopsis:
This mini-documentary was created in response to the Church’s Eucharistic Revival. It begins with man-on-the-street interviews in the heart of Madison, WI, collecting individuals’ understanding, experience, and questions about the Eucharist. Many of them reply with their doubts about the Eucharist or how it is unessential to the faith. Always the model of wisdom and charity, Bishop Hying then provides empathetic commentary on the state of the world and the general misconceptions and lack of understanding about the Eucharist, even within the Church. After listening to all of their answers, Bishop Hying invites people to ponder the question, “What if it were true?”
Ranking Reasoning:
This short but hard-hitting film makes you ponder the mystery of the Eucharist, whether you are an atheist, a practicing Catholic, or anywhere in between. I like the seriousness and gravity of the video while also focusing on people’s authentic stories. It is engaging, containing different creative elements such as interviews, free-flowing conversation, and testimonials. It is thought-provoking, making the viewer question their stance on the Eucharist.
This Christian video is just the start of something bigger. Here at Backflip, we aim to produce more episodes in this series, each one taking place in a different diocese throughout the United States. Do you have the connections? Are you a benefactor? Do you share our passion for this project?
Watch the Dare To Believe Pilot Episode & connect with us!
1. Jesus Christ Superstar (1973)
Anddd the movie you definitely need to watch next is Jesus Christ Superstar, directed by Norman Jewison!!!
Christian Video Synopsis:
Adapted from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Broadway rock opera, the movie Jesus Christ Superstar recounts the last days of Jesus Christ (Ted Neeley) from the perspective of Judas Iscariot (Carl Anderson), his betrayer. As Jesus’ following increases, Judas begins to worry that Jesus is falling for his own hype, forgetting the principles of his teachings and growing too close to the prostitute Mary Magdalene (Yvonne Elliman). After Jesus has an outburst in a temple, Judas turns on him.
Ranking Reasoning:
Ok…. I will admit that there may be some recency bias at work here. I watched this movie for the first time this Spring in preparation for finals week. And ended up acing my tests. Coincidence? I think not. But watching a 70s rendition of the Bible stories you know and love, complete with groovy rockstar Jesus belting opera tunes while his luscious locks blow in the wind, really makes you reconsider your life. The tunes are great, the Biblical accuracy is questionable, and the vibes are unmatchable. The idea of having Judas as the main character was creative genius, and I really need to make sure that this movie is in my regular rotation.
Christian Video Honorable Mentions
Power in My Hands (2019)
Although it didn’t make the official top 5, Power in My Hands deserves a shoutout. This 81 minute feature film from the Rosary Evangelization Apostolate dives into the beauty, timelessness, and power of the Rosary. Its primary purpose is to revitalize America – a society in a spiritual crisis – and instill an active response to the Blessed Mother’s plea for prayer. As far as Christian Video goes, this is a must-see even if it’s not in the top 5. Oh and fun fact, that’s me in the movie poster! Three from the right. Some other pretty cool people are also featured in the documentary – Philip Rivers and Jeff Cavins. Backflip worked on this project along with our creative partners from GEM Communications & Consulting.
Check out the Power in My Hands Trailer!
That pretty much sums up my Top five Must-See Christian Video & Films. Stay tuned for more of my Christian blog content coming soon. Godspeed!
