Christian Teen Comedy Series Finds Suprising Success

By Aaron J. Leichman, Christian Post Reporter Friday, October 17, 2008

The second episode in a multi-part Christian web series for teens will air Saturday as its producers look for ways to make it part of a greater ministry effort following strong positive feedback.

The Christian teen comedy, "Purgatory, USA," follows a young teen, Nikki, who must spend the summer with her younger cousin Babs. During their summer together Nikki and Babs embark on a moral journey and, through their experiences, grow in their faith and in their friendship.

"The original intent was simply to make a web series that Christian teens could use for entertainment and spiritual growth," says Pete Bauer, founder of Sonlight Pictures, which produced the series.

"However, feedback from home schoolers and youth group ministers from around the country has forced us to re-evaluate God's greater plan and we are actively looking for ways to incorporate this web series as part of a greater ministry effort."

The series has been praised by some for bringing back wholesome entertainment during a time when it's hard to find shows like old-time favorites "Leave it to Beaver" and the "Andy Griffith Show."

"Amazing that today's youth have never been exposed to simple, sweet shows that are not laced with sexual innuendo, dysfunctional marriages and gutter-like morals," wrote Bauer in his blog.

"That's a sad state for American TV. But, it does give Purgatory, USA a unique place in the entertainment spectrum."

Each episode of "Purgatory, USA" runs between 10-15 minutes in length and deals with a moral challenge, such as being judgmental, trusting in Jesus, vanity, idol worship and envy. The current slate is planned for a total of 12 episodes, but Bauer is open to extending the series.

"I love these characters and I adore the actors. I could write 100 episodes of this show," he exclaimed in a statement to The Christian Post. "The characters are so much fun and we've had a blast making the series so far. I have been extremely blessed to be surrounded by wonderfully talented actors and a great group of supportive family and friends."

The first four episodes of the series have been completed and the next four are in pre-production as of early October. Each episode can be watched online at PurgatoryUSA.com. In subsequent weeks, behind-the-scenes interviews will be posted as well.