Lights, camera, sign! Have you heard about the groundbreaking movie “Jesus: A Deaf Missions Film”? It’s not your typical movie—it’s a cinematic wonder that tells the story of Jesus entirely in American Sign Language (ASL). What’s even more amazing is that it was created by a Deaf cast and crew, making it a true celebration of diversity and inclusion.
Michael Davis and Joseph Josselyn, the masterminds behind this film, share their vision of creating a movie that not only entertains but also shines a spotlight on the importance of using and recognizing ASL. They break boundaries and make sure the beauty of sign language is on the big screen like never before.
“Deaf people for so long have been watching movies in our second language — we watch it on TV but have to depend on the subtitles or the captions, and we can’t fully experience it,” said director Joseph Josselyn to the Deseret News.
Josselyn is deaf and completed promotional interviews through an ASL interpreter.
“We started thinking about — what if there was a movie where Jesus himself was signing, was acting with facial expressions and sign language? And we knew then that deaf people would be able to connect to that story like never before,” he told the Deseret News.
“This film is for the Deaf, by the Deaf. That part is clear. But I just want to encourage the hearing community to come and be a part and watch the film,” said Josselyn.
“We want them to come and share this unique experience, understand our culture just a little better, and celebrate this historical moment in time, of the first-ever full feature film about Jesus in sign language.”
Davis and Josselyn’s passion for creating a high-quality Deaf film shines through in every frame of “Jesus: A Deaf Missions Film.”
By having a Deaf crew working behind the scenes, they ensure the authenticity of ASL was preserved throughout the entire production. It’s not just a movie—it’s a testament to the power of language and storytelling.
In a world where communication is key, this film serves as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and accessibility. While using ASL as the primary language, “Jesus: A Deaf Missions Film” opens up a new world of storytelling that resonates with Deaf viewers and language enthusiasts alike. It’s a film that speaks volumes without uttering a single word.
So, whether you’re a movie buff, a language lover, or simply someone who appreciates creativity and innovation, this film is a must-see. It’s a testament to the beauty of diversity and the power of language in connecting us all. Get ready to be captivated by a cinematic masterpiece that celebrates the richness of ASL and the talent of the Deaf community in a truly spectacular way.
Lights, camera, sign! 🎬🤟 #JesusDeafMissionsFilm 🌟
Until next time, ta ta! 😄🤟🏻
