When Jim Britts (’99) graduated from Biola University with a degree in Film, Television and Radio — now Cinema and Media Arts — he wondered why God placed him in full time ministry without a degree in Christian Education. His new film, To Save A Life, is his answer.

Working as a youth pastor forced Britts to see the challenges so many teenagers face under a magnifying glass. He saw the hardships and trials they face each day. To Save A Life tells the story so many teenagers desire to tell and also looks at faith authentically demonstrating that believing in Christ doesn’t make life perfect.

To Save A Life was screened more than 100 times across the country before it hit theatres on Jan. 22, 2010, which after the first weekend, was rated by fans as the top film on Fandango.com. The original screenings generated the response Britts hoped for. Beyond the entertainment value, students and youth workers alike appreciated the hope the film introduces to the problems teens face on a daily basis. One deputy sheriff from Florida even said after viewing the movie that it would make his job easier.

The film was featured in multiple news stories over the course of the past months leading up to the release of the film. For instance, ChristianCinema.com highlighted Britts as a Biola graduate and explored what led him to making the film in the article, “Youth Pastor’s Goal: To Save A Life.” The Los Angeles Times also featured To Save A Life in the article “To Save A Life is a faith-based initiative.”

Read more about Britts and his new film in the Winter edition of Biola Magazine.

Written by Jenna Bartlo, Media Relations Coordinator. Jenna can be reached at (562) 777-4061 or through email at jenna.l.bartlo@biola.edu.