Artist bio

My name is Johny Dutch and I'm originally from Clayton, North Carolina. I graduated with a BA in Media Arts from the University of South Carolina. While in college, I won an individual NCAA title as a student-athlete (track). Also, I've represented Team USA at two world championships. I've been creating films since the age of 16. Recently, my latest short film 'The Boy and Boris ' has been featured on Aspire TV network and the PBS 13 channel. I love cinema and enjoy creating timeless stories. I hope you guys enjoy "Stand Your Ground" !

Title

Stand Your Ground

Medium/Genre

Drama

Artist Statement

My short is titled " Stand Your Ground." It follows a young man as he battles his sexual urge to engage in premarital relations.
I filmed the entire project alone. As soon as I came across the notice for the extended deadline, I skipped sleep that night and filmed the entire scene. From lighting to editing, I poured my soul into this project. I have been saved since the age of 12. My journey has been a rollercoaster where I've crashed and climbed back to the top then crashed again. I want people to remember that God loves us during our complex journey; his love is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. Of course, we have to make better decisions, but once you accept Christ into your life, he'll always be there. I've gotten to the point where I no longer let my sin define me as a Christain man. I try my best to let the spirit lead me in decision making. As a single man, waiting until marriage is extremely hard, but with positive friends and knowledge in scripture, God will help us endure.

My signature film style are quick cuts and fast paced edits. I love the thrill of a fun, fast paced, heart-pounding sequence, so I incorporate that frantic shooting style in my work. Stand Your Ground is still a light hearted short film that anyone can enjoy.

How it fits into contest

Unfortunately, its hard for a millennial to scroll on their social media without being exposed to overt, sexual content. Nowadays, this sexualized content often encourages a lustful way of thinking that can be harmful to any Christian waiting for marriage. In this story, we follow a young man as he battles between his flesh and spirit. Will he trust God and use the gospel as armor to defeat the enemy?
"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand." This part of the verse resonated with me. It's important to be equipped with scripture, so I can speak them during times of temptation. Matthew 5:6 keeps me disciplined and James 4:7 helps me reassure my faith in God's promise and protection.

Credits

Director, Writer, Editor, Sound Mixer, Lead - Johnny Dutch

Transcript / Lyrics

Too often, I'm led by my flesh.
Too often, I'm tempted and can't resist.
I pray for the strength to resist temptation.
I need you more than ever.
I can't do this alone.
Our struggle is not against flesh and blood,
but against the powers of this dark world.
Put on the full armour of God,
so that you may be able to stand your ground.

If you guys need anything else, please let me know.

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