The Initiative is an apt name for the independent film company birthed from YWAM Brisbane’s School of Digital Filmmaking in Australia. After winning a parade of awards for one of their many short films, the young film company has decided to step out into something bigger: the challenge of a feature film. Their first full-length project, The Umbrella, aims to promote a message of reconciliation, redemption, and restoration.

The Umbrella was originally the brainchild of director, producer, and founder of The Initiative, Jason Solari. After years of development, writer and producer, Josh Potthoff, was brought alongside the project to breathe life into the writing and give flesh to the story. Both are passionate about their production, aiming to engage hearts and minds. “Film is the most influential medium of our day,” says Jason. “And it’s our goal to tell good stories.”