“The 21” is not just a film; it is an unflinching testament to the resilience of the human spirit, the power of faith in the face of unimaginable suffering, and the enduring legacy of courage. This harrowing yet profoundly moving account of the 21 Christian migrant workers murdered by ISIS on a Libyan beach in 2015 serves as both a historical record and a deeply personal tribute to those who gave their lives for their beliefs.
The Brutality of Extremism
In the early 21st century, ISIS embarked on a campaign of terror across North Africa, seeking to eliminate anyone they deemed unworthy of existence—particularly Christians. Among their most vulnerable targets were Egyptian Coptic Christians, many of whom had fled economic hardship in Egypt only to encounter unspeakable violence abroad. In December 2014, seven Coptic Egyptians were captured while attempting to return home. Just days later, another 13 were seized during a raid on their housing complex.
Alongside them was Matthew, a Ghanaian Christian whose inclusion among the captives would become one of the story’s defining moments. When offered release due to his nationality, Matthew refused, declaring that he shared the same God as the others. His decision elevated the group from 20 to 21—a symbolic number imbued with spiritual significance.
Torture and Triumph
For weeks, the captors subjected these men to psychological and physical torment, hoping to break their resolve. They were forced into grueling labor, pulling heavy bags of wet sand under scorching suns, beaten when they faltered, and deprived of sleep. Yet, despite the brutality, their faith only deepened. One night, as they prayed together in unison—”Lord, have mercy”—an extraordinary event occurred: the ground shook violently, striking fear into the hearts of their captors. Whether this seismic tremor was divine intervention or mere coincidence remains open to interpretation, but its impact was undeniable—it underscored the steadfastness of the prisoners’ convictions.
Even more chilling were reports of strange apparitions witnessed by ISIS fighters along the beach where the executions were filmed. Figures cloaked in black, wielding swords, seemed to walk among the condemned. Others rode horses, evoking imagery reminiscent of biblical prophecy. These phenomena unsettled the executioners, accelerating their plans to carry out the murders before something far worse befell them.
Final Moments of Courage
On February 15, 2015, ISIS released a five-minute video showing the brutal beheading of the 21 Christians. Each man faced death with quiet dignity, uttering prayers to God until their final breath. Their killers hoped to instill terror, but instead, they created martyrs whose names now echo through history. None of the victims wavered, even when given opportunities to renounce their faith in exchange for freedom. Their refusal stands as a powerful rebuke to extremism, a reminder that true strength lies not in violence but in conviction.
Recognition on the Global Stage
It is worth noting that The 21 , in its animated form, has been recognized for its artistic and emotional depth. The film was shortlisted for the Animated Short Film category at the 97th Academy Awards , standing alongside some of the world’s most exceptional works in animation. This acknowledgment highlights not only the film‘s technical excellence but also its ability to convey profound themes of faith, sacrifice, and humanity in a way that resonates universally.
Lessons Learned
“The 21” challenges us to reflect on what it means to stand firm in our values, even when doing so comes at great personal cost. It forces us to confront the darkest aspects of humanity while simultaneously illuminating the light that persists within even the bleakest circumstances. At its core, this story is about unity—not just among the 21 men themselves, but also among all people who reject division and embrace compassion.
Matthew’s choice to join the Coptic Christians exemplifies this theme of solidarity. By declaring himself one of them, he transcended national boundaries and demonstrated that faith can unite individuals across cultures and backgrounds. His act of selflessness reminds us that we are all connected, bound by shared hopes, fears, and aspirations.
“The 21” is a haunting yet hopeful narrative that demands our attention. Through its raw depiction of suffering and sacrifice, it invites viewers to grapple with questions of identity, morality, and purpose. While the events depicted are undeniably tragic, they also serve as a call to action—a reminder that the fight against intolerance requires vigilance, empathy, and courage. As we remember the 21 men who perished on that fateful day, let us honor their memory by striving to create a world where such atrocities never occur again. Their deaths may have been senseless, but their legacy endures as a beacon of hope and resilience in an often-dark world.
We acknowledge The European Times for the information.
