Ignite Film Festival, sponsored by Bible Society Australia, has announced its finalists in its 2013 Australian Christian short film competition.

The films, which must explore the theme of ‘joy’ for this year’s competition are available to view here, with viewers invited to vote for the People’s Choice award. That award, and the winner of the festival for this year will be announced on Monday 16 September.

Festival director Allan Dowthwaite says there have been some excellent entries with overall high production values this year. The mix of first-timers and old-timers in the entrants has also provided some interesting interpretations of the theme.

“The film makers have done well at expressing a biblical concept of joy,” says Dowthwaite. “That is, it’s not simply happiness, but stems from something deeper – a restored relationship or serving others, that sort of thing.”

“Ignite is all about getting people to read the Bible and to be creative in telling its story. The quality of films each year has been terrific, and it’s been exciting to see a few past entrants go on to successful media careers.

Watch the 2012 winning entry below, by Michael Snowdon, now a missionary with CMS in Spain. He has also submitted an entry in this year’s competition. Watch the shortlisted films here and vote on your favourite.