Priscilla Shirer, known for her powerful roles in films like The War Room, joined Leah and Dan to discuss her latest project which is making waves at the box office in the United States. The Forge depicts the story of a 19-year-old young man who is struggling to find direction in his life. Shirer plays the role of his mother, a character she relates to deeply. “I am a mum of three young men. So, when they asked me to play this role, I was like, you bet I will!“
Why The Forge?
Shirer’s decision to join the project was influenced by her long-standing relationship with the Kendrick Brothers, the filmmakers behind the movie. “Having known them now for 15 years, they are really men of integrity.” Shirer knew that the project would honour God and not “water down the name of Jesus.” This commitment to faith, combined with the opportunity to portray a mother navigating the challenges of raising a young man, made the role particularly meaningful to her.
Behind the Scenes on Set
The set is not just a workplace; it’s a community of faith. “Every day, the entire cast and crew—about 100 people—gather for a devotional and prayer before we start filming,” Shirer explained. Throughout the day, even in the heat, the crew will pause filming for scenes that could touch someone spiritually. “They’ll stop everything, call people down from ladders and behind cameras, and we’ll all join hands to pray over the scene, asking God to do a good work in someone’s life.” This atmosphere of intentional faith had a profound impact on Shirer’s sons, who witnessed the dedication to both filmmaking and spiritual growth firsthand.
A Personal Connection to the Role
Shirer’s portrayal of Cynthia Wright, a single mother raising her son Isaiah, resonated with her personal experiences. Her husband was raised by a single mother, and Shirer deeply values the sacrifices that single parents make. “My mother-in-law decided this will not be my son’s story,” Shirer said, reflecting on how her husband’s mother changed the trajectory of their family legacy through prayer and perseverance.
The Importance of Mentorship
A central theme of The Forge is the crucial role of mentorship, both inside and outside the home. Shirer emphasised this by sharing her own experience with mentors, a couple named John and Trina Jenkins. “They have been in me and Jerry’s life for about 20 years,” she said. This couple has guided them through tough decisions and has been instrumental in their journey, highlighting the power of one life impacting another.
Why The Forge Is Resonating with Audiences
Shirer believes that The Forge resonates with audiences because it portrays real-life struggles in a technically excellent and entertaining way. “For a long time, there’s been a sector of the Body of Christ that hasn’t felt represented on film,” she said. Now, movies like The Forge provide a platform for these stories, drawing people in with both their authenticity and quality.
The Forge is more than just a movie; it’s a powerful tool for sharing faith and inspiring change. Shirer’s involvement in the project reflects her commitment to roles that honour God and make a meaningful impact. As The Forge hits cinemas, audiences can expect a film that not only entertains but also challenges and uplifts.
Listen to the full conversation below.