JESUS: a Deaf Missions film

JESUS: a Deaf Missions film uses native signers to bring the story of Jesus to life from a deaf perspective for a deaf audience.

Don’t miss this historic film—produced for Deaf by Deaf—with a cast fluent in American Sign Language. Deaf producer / director Joseph D. Josselyn (of Deaf Missions) and Deaf producer Michael Davis (of GUM Vision Studio) bring the movie to life for Deaf audiences. The film is subtitled for access to those who do not know ASL.

Coming to theaters as a special event beginning Thursday, June 20, JESUS provides Deaf audiences with the unique opportunity to experience the story of Jesus presented as a feature film entirely in American Sign Language—produced for Deaf by Deaf! Tickets will be available at https://tickets.jesusdeaffilm.com

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Founded in 1970, Deaf Missions is an international Christian ministry dedicated to clearly communicating the Gospel of Jesus with Deaf people through their heart language, culture, and identity. Deaf Mission serves people in more than 100 countries and 60 denominations, while keeping its focus narrow: creating epic video content in sign language, encouraging the development of Gospel communities, and equipping Deaf leaders by providing access to resources and training in their heart language. In 2020, Deaf Missions completed the first full translation of the Bible in any sign language: the ASLV (American Sign Language Version of the Bible). In 2024, Deaf Missions releases JESUS in theaters—a feature film entirely in American Sign Language. It was based on an 8-minute short entitled “Uncondemned” that the ministry created as a proof of concept. The ministry’s previous productions include the syndicated children’s television series “Dr. Wonder’s Workshop,” “Finger Food Cafe,” and other children’s videos. They have also produced numerous short ASL-storytelling features. Deaf Missions’ first feature-length film was based on the book of Job.

A Long Way Off

A Long Way Off is a modern day retelling of The Prodigal Son. Jake Abraham (Jason Burkey) works for his father (John Diehl), a prosperous farmer in North Carolina. Jake doesn't feel like farm living is the life he was meant to have, so tells his dad that he is quitting, and, by the way, would also like to have his inheritance NOW! He has to have money to invest it... and will need a few dollars to live on as he waits to get richer.

When he reaches the big city, he meets a new friend, Summer (Zoe Myers), who works at a nearby coffee shop, but is drawn to actress, Laura (Johanna Jowett), despite the fact that she appears to be in a relationship with Frank (Robert Davi). Spending money freely, it appears he will waste it all until one of his investments pays off big. However, when the investment falls through, Jake is left with no money, no friends, an angry mobster who is threatening him...and no where to turn.

A chance encounter at a homeless shelter with Al (Rusty Martin Sr.) leads to a job on a pig farm, and some wise advice. Setting aside his pride and fears, he throws himself on the mercy of his father. Will he be accepted or rejected?
  
A Long Way Off also stars Dave Blamy (as Jake's brother, Seth), Robert Amaya and Edie McClurg. Written by Jon Macy and co-directed by Michael Davis and John Errington. Davis also serves as producer; Gerald McGlothlin and Christy McGlothlin are the executive producers for ProdigalFilm LLC. For more info on the film, visit their website at  www.alongwayoffthemovie.com.

My Review: This film is based on one of my favorite parables told by Jesus, "The Prodigal Son". For any unfamiliar with the story, it is the ultimate example of God's grace and forgiveness toward His children who reject Him (but don't hesitate to take His blessings) and His acceptance of those who humble themselves, ask forgiveness, and return to Him. I cry each and every time I read about or see a re-enactment of this Father and child reunion.

This film was no exception! I don't feel like I am giving away anything. The basic plot of the story in in the Bible, and the difference is in the setting and the details. This was a well acted story and looked great. Those looking for foul language and signs of nudity will be disappointed (thank goodness!). Some parts are not necessarily suitable for younger children, but even the worst is better than the average person sees daily. It is certainly suitable for teens and up. Jake's lavish lifestyle may look attractive, but is also a prime example of how quickly people will desert you when you are no longer useful to them. 

I admit, that I am more prone to identify with the older brother in this tale. I loved the way this part of the story was handled, and thought Dave Blamy was excellent in the role of Seth, the "good" brother who felt his efforts were unappreciated. Jason Burkey is an outstanding actor and easily portrayed a believable character who made a complete turnaround with his life. John Diehl was also remarkable as the dad who reluctantly gives in to his son's demands, and his part in the climactic scene will long remain with me, especially when I am reading this story in my Bible.

Disclaimer: Thank you to Edify Media and Word Entertainment for providing me with a copy of this dvd for review purposes. No expectations were given for a positive review; only an honest one.