LOCAL churches are going head to head with an American psychopath and the escapades of two hormonal teenagers, in an attempt to increase awareness of the life of Jesus.

More than 20 churches banded together to persuade the UCI cinema to show a 92-minute film of the life of Jesus for one week.

The screening, which will take place from May 5 to 11, sees the film go up against the likes of American Psycho and Kevin and Perry Go Large.

Reverend Andrew Belshaw, associate pastor of Fulwood Free Methodist Church, said: "In West Bromwich recently, more than 1,250 people went to see this film in just four days, which is an excellent response. "It shows that the person of Jesus still has the power to grab people's attention more than 2,000 years after his birth."

The film, Jesus the Christ, recalls the events of Jesus' life from the viewpoint of ageing disciple Matthew, and was filmed in Morocco, South Africa and America, with a cast of thousands.

More than 4,000 letters have been sent out to churches, schools, colleges, libraries and religious organisations across Lancashire, publicising the screening.

Rev Belshaw, organising the publicity for the film, said that it was being shown as part of Preston Evangelical Network's millennium celebrations.

He added: "Many people today, especially young people, know surprisingly little about Jesus, yet his teachings have shaped our country and still exert a powerful influence.

"The film helps fill in the gaps and bring it all vividly to life."

Jesus the Christ will show at 10.30am and 7pm from May 5 to 11, at the UCI cinema in Riversway.