In our ministry, and our Christian tradition, stories have the power to inspire, motivate, heal, and challenge us. The gift of telling our own story is precious and powerful. There are so many wonderful storytellers in our lives and our world, especially in a format uniquely its own: short films and stories.
These pieces of art capture some of life’s most important and poignant moments, communicating and resonating with our own lives. Inspired by the many cinematic stories that currently exist, as well as the ones that have touched our hearts, here are some resources for short films that might spark an idea or helpful in your ministry.
Float
Pixar is a giant of short animated filmmaking, with scores of short movies produced with stunning results. This is one of my favourites: a film about a father who was afraid to let his son be himself. Pixar Animation Studios and the SparkShorts filmmakers of FLOAT released this film in solidarity with the Asian and Asian American communities against Anti-Asian hate in all its forms in the USA. Its universal message of allowing others to be themselves and live their freedom is beautiful. Check out other more recent films like “Wind” and “Bao” as well!
Coin Operated
Looking for motivation? This movie is about a young boy who is obsessed with a spaceship and has always wanted to get to the moon. This short movie is a brilliant display of a child’s vivid imagination. It offers a lesson to not give up despite all the barricades you face in life. The young boy has an undying passion and determination to fulfill his ambition. He stays on his ground and devotes his entire lifetime in pursuing the dream.
Hair Love
Hair Love tells the story of an African-American father trying to help his daughter comb and styling her hair for the very first time. On the surface. This story is about family, overcoming struggles, and the gift of love.
Zero
This moving Australian film tells a complex, but all too familiar story of exclusion and intolerance. Using imagery of numbers and a world made for yarn, its messages of acceptance and that all of us have something unique to offer the world, regardless of our nationality, offers important points for reflections.
Stone Soup
Based on Marcia Brown’s famous story, animated versions of ‘Stone Soup’ bring to life this timeless story of selfishness, generosity, and the power of community. The version produced by SBS is one of my favourite tellings.
https://www.sbs.com.au/ondemand/watch/11719747826
Happy viewing!