Anna, a young slave girl, is rescued and adopted by Christians in 2ND Century Smyrna, and befriended by their aged bishop, Polycarp. As Anna is taught by Polycarp and her new family, she struggles to reconcile her beliefs with those of the Christians. When the Roman proconsul demands that all citizens worship Caesar to show their allegiance to Rome, Polycarp and the Christians must find courage to stand for their faith against the growing threat of persecution. Anna is forced to come to grips with the truth and choose whom she is willing to live, and die for.
Acting
Garry Nation's Polycarp has gravitas that elevates the whole production.
Production
Surprisingly authentic 2nd century Smyrna on an indie budget.
Director
Joe Henline
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
The real Polycarp was a disciple of John the Apostle; his actual martyrdom letter survives from 155 AD.
The 'Caesar worship' test was historically real — Christians were executed for refusing a pinch of incense, not secret belief.
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