HILLSONG : LET HOPE RISE
Capturing the on-stage energy and the off-stage hearts of the Australia based band Hill Song United, Hillsong : Let Hope Rise is a new motion-picture genre -- the theatrical worship experience. The film explores Hillsong's humble beginnings and astonishing rise to prominence as an international church whose songs are sung every Sunday by more than 50 million people world-wide.
My Review:
What an exhilarating movie! I wasn't sure what to expect but the format was perfect -- a blend of performances punctuated by heart-felt conversation. And testimonies. Oh, my goodness, the testimonies! Amazing stuff. And I learned a lot.
Of course, I knew that Hillong United was a Christian group. I knew their songs. But that's it. I didn't know that their roots are in a small suburban Australian church that began 25 years ago. Or that from those humble beginnings the church has grown to a congregation of 30,000! Talk about pioneering spirit! I can't even imagine! And I find those facts really exciting since I am attending a small church plant in my city.
Hillsong Church became known for the energy, excitement and zeal of it's worship service and the band was a natural off-shoot of that. They like to joke that they are "the biggest band you never heard of." But they are changing the face of Christian music. "We draw attention to ourselves to draw attention away from ourselves" (and onto God.) And that pretty much sums up their humility. It's evident in the diverse testimonies. A real passion for Jesus shines through and touched me, the viewer. They talk about the responsibility that comes with writing lyrics because these songs are "words written to sing, not just listen to." And it's true that their words orchestrate the way many of us throughout the world worship in our own churches.
A fascinating insight into the struggles and triumphs of Hillside United and includes some praiseworthy performances. A movie I highly recommend. Keep an eye out for release dates in your area.
My thanks to Graf-Martin Communications for providing me with an opportunity to view this movie online.
