Contact: Tamara Collins, Public Affairs Officer, American Bible Society, 212-408-1433, tcollins@americanbible.org

MEDIA ADVISORY, Feb. 6 /Christian Newswire/ -- The American Bible Society has joined forces with the 168 Hour Film Project to sponsor its annual Speed Filmmaking Contest, an international competition which produces faith-based short films, all made during the same week. Producers have 168 hours (one week) to film and edit an 11-minute movie based on a theme and a Bible verse. "Free the Captives" is this year's theme, and each film will be based on a randomly-selected verse reflecting that theme.

"The American Bible Society is committed to making use of innovative and fruitful methods of sharing the life-changing message of the Bible with the world," said Dr. Lamar Vest, executive vice president, Global Scripture Ministries, American Bible Society. "Our support of the168 Hour Film Project's mission, to illuminate of the Word of God through short film, is one of the myriad of ways that the American Bible Society fulfills its mission."

Other sponsors of this year's 168 Hour Film Project include Sony, Millennia Media, EIKI, Roland Systems Group and Edirol.

Since 2003, 226 films have been made in conjunction with the 168 Hour Film Project from locations such as Siberia, Spain, Taiwan, Kenya and Kyrgyzstan. The 168 Film Festival will include up to 100 premieres, which debut on April 11, 2008 at the United Community Auditorium, and April 12th at the Alex Theatre (both in Glendale, California). Winners in various categories will share $10,000 in cash and prizes, and selected films will air worldwide on Trinity Broadcasting Network (TBN) and other networks.

Filmmakers can compete from any location and send their entries via mail carrier. International registration for the film competition should be received by February 14, 2008, and registration from within the United States should be received by February 22, 2008. To register, please visit www.168project.com or call 818-557-8507.

Founded in 1816 and headquartered in New York City, the mission of the American Bible Society is to make the Bible available to every person in a language and format each can understand and afford, so that all people may experience its life-changing message. The American Bible Society Web site is www.Bibles.com.

For more information, contact: American Bible Society Public Affairs Officer, Tamara Collins, 212-408-1433, tcollins@americanbible.org