21-year-old David Orin has gone viral by posting videos of him wrestling with pythons, willingly getting bitten on the face, and fearlessly flirting with venomous vipers. But, if you keep swiping, you will also see posts of David preaching the gospel, encouraging others to follow Christ, and condemning the sin of masturbation. As an amateur herper, a discipline rooted in biology & behavioral science, and a fiercely passionate fundamentalist Christian, David walks a fine line between two communities we often see as at odds. However, he feels like he can reconcile the two, with his love for God fueling his appreciation for all of His creations. There are plenty of Christian influencers out there, as well as plenty of herper accounts, but he’s the only one fusing the two, and people just can’t get enough. However, it’s not all snakes & sunshine – David is often criticized online for his lack of formal training and somewhat cavalier approach to the hobby.
Tag Archives: Christian
Trapped: Inside South Korea’s Fringe Churches
Experts estimate there are 2 million South Koreans who are followers of fringe churches, but the exact figures are unknown. Shincheonji has allegedly become one of the most dominant fringe christian groups in recent years. Currently, it is estimated that there are over 250,000 Shincheonji Church followers within South Korea and internationally.
In the Name of Honour
In the Name of Honour exposes frightening cases of ‘honour’ killings – the killing of a relative, especially a girl or woman, who is perceived to have brought dishonour on the family – from India, Jordan and Palestinian Territories. Hindu, Muslim and Christian families all share the tragic experiences that wrecked their lives.
In this part verité / part investigative documentary, director Pawel Gula proves there is no honour in killing. The film juxtaposes horrific news footage with insights from the families of victims whose lives have been irreparably damaged and the killers who are still debating the consequences of their actions. Broader commentary from officials and activists fighting this horrific tradition combine to create a comprehensive picture of this brutal, hidden practice.
In the Name of Honour from Sideways Film on Vimeo.
Jesus Town, USA
For 88 years, a small Oklahoma town has pantomimed a passion play on a bizarre reproduction of Jerusalem built into the Wichita foothills.
Jesus Town, USA is a light-hearted and comedic documentary chronicling the journey of a 100-strong amateur cast, a dozen horses, and very devout community. Once boasting audiences of over 200,000 the Pageant now struggles to find any audience at all. When the man playing Jesus for 8 years retires, his replacement, a long-standing member of the cast, has a secret he is hiding from everyone.
The journey from casting to opening night is a real-life ‘Waiting for Guffman’ set in the heart of Oklahoma. With endearing characters, quirky humour, and stunning cinematography, Jesus Town, USA documents a town grappling with questions of tradition, legacy, and what it means to be a community.
Meeting ISIL
Anyone who is not with us is the enemy and should be branded an infidel.
This seems to be the prevailing ideology of the extreme Takfiri terrorists known as the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL). Their aim is said to be the establishment of an Islamic Caliphate. Shias, Christians, Sunnis, Yazidies, and whoever dares to question them or raise the voice of dissent is persecuted under their distorted version of Islamic Sharia.
Gruesome beheadings, crucifixions and mass executions are openly carried out under their iconic black flag. At times, it seems like their victims are whoever is unlucky enough to be in their path during their killing sprees. And yet they know how to manipulate social media and have succeeded in brainwashing some to join them in their ‘fight for justice’.
To learn who these people are, what they are fighting for, and who funds them, we go deep into their camps and bring you face to face interviews and exclusive footage. Many of those who were initially infatuated by the group’s promise of justice seem to be horrified and utterly disillusioned today.
Fish Out of Water
Fish out of Water tackles the seven Bible verses used to condemn homosexuality and justify marriage discrimination.
This documentary uses humour and original animation to make a traditionally complex and controversial topic accessible to those who don’t like talking about religion and sexuality. Fish out of Water dives into the underbelly of America, crisscrosses red and blue states and talks to ministers from every denomination to uncover America’s impassioned relationship with homosexuality and the Bible. With slapstick animation and quirky interviews taken everywhere from barbershops to mega churches, Fish out of Water delivers a voice to the oppressed and informs the misled. Most importantly, Fish out of Water sits down with hundreds of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender folks to impart their experiences with faith and sexuality.