The release of a compelling new film titled “The 21” has ignited conversations surrounding the harrowing events that transpired a decade ago this week, when ISIS radical extremists brutally beheaded 21 Coptic Christians. This heart-wrenching narrative doesn’t solely recount the atrocity, but also, more poignantly, reveals the unshakeable faith of the martyrs, showcasing how they held steadfast to their beliefs right up until their final moments. Producer Mandi Hart remarked on the profound depth of sacrifice demonstrated by these men, observing that each of them had numerous opportunities to save their lives during their 40-plus days of captivity, yet, in unity, they remained resolute.
At its recent presentation at the International Religious Freedom Summit in Washington, D.C., the film served as a potent reminder of the chilling and impactful events of February 15, 2015. The aesthetically crafted 13-minute film juxtaposes animation with real ISIS propaganda footage, creating a unique and haunting viewing experience that emphasizes both horror and hope. The animation style embodies Orthodox iconography, which is typical of the art found in Coptic traditions—features reminiscent of the religious paintings and decorations within Orthodox churches worldwide. Hart explained that it was essential for the film to resonate with the cultural background of the Coptic community while effectively conveying the painful histories embedded in their art and architecture.
The film’s narrative focuses on simple, hardworking Egyptian laborers who fell victim to ISIS after being kidnapped in Libya. The terrorists demanded that these men renounce their faith in Jesus Christ, the solitary condition for their release. Refusing to comply, the captives endured prolonged torture and abuse over the course of six weeks. Eventually, they were forced into orange jumpsuits and taken to a desolate beach where masked ISIS operatives coldly executed them. Hart shared that the brutal reality of the beheadings is not depicted in the film; however, it is a significant backdrop that enriches the story of their unwavering faith.
Director Tod Polson, who engaged with the distressing original ISIS video, reflected on its haunting imagery—an experience that remains indelibly etched in his memory. He described the video as tragic yet inspiring, noting that it is one thing to speak of faithfulness, but entirely different to witness it enacted in such an intimate and terrifying context. Many families of the martyrs still watch this footage to remind themselves of their loved ones’ sacrifices and to ensure that their stories are never forgotten.
The callous filming of the murders was intended by ISIS to assert their power and spread propaganda. Yet, amidst this display of craven violence, accounts from former ISIS members hint at otherworldly phenomena occurring on that fateful day. During discussions with investigators, one ISIS member recounted sighting shadowy figures and angels at the beach, suggesting that these executions were not solely a confrontation with mortal foes, but a clash between divine forces and evil. The film illustrates these supernatural occurrences through artistic visuals, implying that the slaying of the martyrs was not void of heavenly intervention.
Hart notes that at least one ISIS member was reportedly so traumatized by what he witnessed that he abandoned the group and later converted to Christianity. The broader tale transcends individual martyrdom and showcases the profound collective faith that characterizes the Coptic community. Copts, considered one of the earliest denominations of Christianity, have been subjected to persecution for approximately 2,000 years and have borne countless martyrs over their long history.
In the film, the 21 men implored Jesus to forgive their murderers, echoing Christ’s own words during His crucifixion, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Amidst a world where honoring the name of Jesus can often be countercultural, “The 21” powerfully illustrates the strength and hope derived from faith. Reflecting on the larger picture, Hart recalls a conversation with the Coptic archbishop of London, Archbishop Angaelos, who poignantly suggested that one day, the ex-ISIS member who embraced faith will be welcomed into heaven by the very martyrs he initially sought to kill—an embodiment of Christian love and forgiveness that transcends all enmity.
