10 July 2025

Limelight: A Salvation Army documentary

Salvationist introduces a film about a little-known chapter in Salvation Army history.

Limelight is a documentary that brings to life a remarkable chapter of Salvation Army history: the Limelight Department in Melbourne, Australia. Established in the late 19th century – before Hollywood existed – the pioneering film studio used lantern slides and early motion pictures to share the Army’s message, educate communities and inspire faith.

Through restored archival footage and compelling interviews, Limelight reveals how the Limelight Department harnessed the power of new media to connect with people in imaginative ways. Their story is one of bold creativity and vision, showing The Salvation Army as a leader in using technology to make a difference.

For Salvationists, Limelight offers a chance to be inspired by the Army’s heritage – to see how innovation and faith have always gone hand in hand.

Limelight invites viewers to reflect on what’s possible when faith meets creativity.

For anyone else, the film is an opportunity to discover a side of The Salvation Army that may surprise and amaze them, highlighting the organisation’s long tradition of engaging communities through powerful storytelling and genuine care.

Limelight invites viewers to reflect on what’s possible when faith meets creativity, and to find new inspiration in the Army’s ongoing mission. We look forward to exploring together how this story might touch hearts and minds across the UK and the world.

You can watch Limelight via two platforms managed by Heritage Films: Wonder Streaming, for home entertainment, and Wonder Events, for movie events.

Find out more about Limelight via the website limelightdocumentary.com. The film is released by Heritage Films. Find out more about Heritage Films at the company’s website heritagefilms.com.au.

How can my corps or centre host a screening of Limelight?

You can host a screening by registering an account with Wonder Event. This gives you permission to show the film in your corps, community hall, or other local venue. Once registered, you will receive everything you need to promote and run the event confidently.

What’s involved in organising a screening?

Hosting is simple: choose a date, secure a venue and invite your congregation or local community. You will be provided with promotional materials, access to the film, and a public screening licence.

Can individuals or small groups watch the film privately?

Yes. While Limelight is designed to spark community conversations, there will also be an option to stream the film online via Wonder Streaming. This is ideal for individuals, small groups or ministry teams wanting to engage more personally.

Are there discussion guides or ministry resources included?
Yes. Hosts will receive a screening kit, which includes a discussion guide and tools to help facilitate meaningful conversations. These resources are perfect for youth nights, small groups, or broader community engagement.

Is this film suitable for outreach or youth engagement?

Absolutely. Limelight is a story of transformation through music, mentorship and hope. It speaks directly to themes of identity, purpose and resilience, making it ideal for outreach events, youth ministry nights, or community connection initiatives.