‘The 21’ Is A Powerful Story About Faith, Resilience, And Devoted Love
In 2015, the beheading of 21 Coptic Christians by ISIS shocked the world. Yet, it sparked a powerful response that was at odds with the extremists’ intent: the victims’ families chose forgiveness. Instead of division, various faith communities from around the world united in condemning the violence.
For the past decade, ISIS’s propaganda video was the most widely known account of this tragic story. However, scattered eyewitness accounts — known only to the victims’ families and those responsible for the crimes — also existed. Drawing on some of these stories, an international team of over 70 artists from 24 countries, led by Cartoon Saloon alum Tod Polson, have created a more authentic and deeply moving retelling with The 21. Created in collaboration with the global Coptic community, this new film provides a richer and more human perspective on the events.
Director Tod Polson spent months carefully shaping the film’s story and concept art. He traveled to Egypt to visit the martyrs’ home province, meeting their families and the local bishop. These heartfelt interactions deepened his understanding of the men’s lives and strengthened his admiration for their courage. The story developed gradually, informed by interviews with the martyrs’ families, other Copts, former ISIS members, and journalists embedded with the Libyan army.
To ensure authenticity, the production team collaborated closely with Archbishop Angaelos of London, staying true to Coptic faith and traditions. Native Arabic speakers from Egypt and the American Coptic community helped bring the characters to life.
The film’s score and sound design were deeply influenced by the rich acoustic heritage of the martyrs’ homeland. With roots in both Egypt and the Coptic diaspora, classically trained Coptic musicians Sarah and Laura Ayoub composed and recorded an original symphonic score for the film infused with traditional Egyptian instruments and authentic cultural sounds. Their score was balanced by the unique soundscape created by sound designer and composer Giles Lamb who drew from the region’s unique sounds, creating an audio experience that stays true to the martyrs’ origins. The Ayoub Sisters soundtrack will be released as a stand-alone musical memorial to the martyrs.
Over nearly five years of production, artists from 24 countries contributed their time, passion and talent to the film. 2D animators from places as diverse as South Africa, India, Iran, and Romania worked in different software, different time zones, and on different aspects of the film. All their individual contributions were brought together into an exquisite work of art that counters a narrative of hate with a story of devoted love.
“My deepest hope is that The 21 serves as a tribute to the martyrs and their families,” said Polson. “In a world that seems more than ever in need of such powerful examples of faith and resilience, I believe their story is more vital than ever.”
To learn more about the film, visit The21Film.com.
