On the surface, everything seems perfect. 19-year-old Mirjam is the stepdaughter of the charismatic pastor of an evangelical movement called The Freedom. As a world champion in disco freestyle dancing and leader of the youth group in the congregation, she is the pride of the church. Whilst defending her world title, she collapses on stage. This makes her start to question her faith. Her family’s solution is for her to be a better believer. When she begins to falter, her family questions her faith and prompts her to search for more radical solutions, and she ends up lured by a highly conservative Christian sect – which might actually be a death cult. Frustrated by the feeling of not being seen and in search of answers, she is drawn to a stricter, more conservative congregation. 

 The film stars Josefine Frida Pettersen as Mirjam, and also includes Andreas Preus Efskin, Espen Reboli Bjerke, and Nicolai Cleve Broch.

Thriller | 94 Minutes | In Norwegian with English Subtitles

AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE OR RENT ON DECEMBER 1, 2020 from 1091 Pictures

CHURCHES

Friheten (The Freedom) was inspired by the rise of the international evangelical megachurches, which employ sophisticated marketing techniques and popular music to attract young congregations.The more conservative church that Mirjam is drawn to and the events that take place during their summer camp are also based on real-life accounts.

Hillsong is a Pentecostal megachurch, established in Australia, it now has over 80 branches in 21 countries. It also streams a weekly TV program which reaches 160 countries. Hillsong has become a powerful brand and their services filled with upbeat music and inspirational pastors emulate music concerts. They also have their own Grammy-nominated music group, Hillsong Young & Free. Hillsong have several congregations in Norway.

Elevation Church is a multi-site church based in the US and Canada. Steven Furtick is the pastor and face of the church, as well as songwriter and New York Times best-selling author. Furtick has grown Elevation into a global ministry through online streaming, television and music.

About the Author

Bryen Dunn is a freelance journalist with a focus on travel, lifestyle, entertainment and hospitality. He has an extensive portfolio of celebrity interviews with musicians, actors and other public personalities. He enjoys discovering delicious eats, tasting spirited treats, and being mesmerized by musical beats.