I had heard a lot of things said about the movie before I saw it nearly two years after it opened, and so was wary of whether or not it would live up to its billing. The first 45 minutes of this hour-or-so long film are good, but nothing amazing. Then the action scene and then the scene where Christ comes takes you on an emotional roller-coaster and gets you thinking of what it would be like to be in that situation. It is very touching. Nobody moved for nearly 5 minutes after the film was over, many crying. As one who loves the Book of Mormon, I truly enjoyed how this movie brought to life the most important aspect of it.
25 Reviews
Very Moving; Graphic depiction of the Crucifixion; Evocative.
sidunrau2 May 2001
The Testaments: Of One Fold and One Shepherd is moving and beautiful. It is obviously designed to focus the viewer on Mormonism's focus on the Savior. Nevertheless, most of the acting is well done, the scenery is beautiful, and the story line is interesting. There are a few glitches (the Savior's feet don't seem to be pierced as he greets Mary on resurrection morning, for example) and some overly-dramatic attempts that fail just a bit (especially lines delivered by the father), but overall I believe the movie is compelling. After the movie the lights come half-way on while we hear a choir sing a hymn; it is interesting to me that nobody moves during this time - the audience just sits through the three (or so) minute hymn; I think that shows how evocative the movie is; the audience is glad to have some time to just contemplate, wipe tears away and prepare to leave the theater.
I think this movie is better if you are "Not" LDS or read the BofM
caesarmoridon24 December 2006
Warning: Spoilers
This is a moving and touching film, but strays majorly from the text it represents. Many of the characters are fictional and the events embellished. With that said, the movie is well acted other than some over acting by the father and villain and sappy acting from many characters. The sets are very good and the scenes with Christ are very moving and spiritual. The musical score is also very good. I have seen it twice at the Old Town Visitor's Center of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I did enjoy the film and do not want to give the impression that it is bad because it is not. It is a good film. I recommend it to anyone as long as you go with the understanding that this is a liberal interpretation of the Book of Mormon: Another Testament of Jesus Christ. If you haven't read the book I believe this will be more enjoyable than if you have. If you have read the book just remember this fiction based on fact.
Spiritually uplifting & inspiring. Superb portrayal of Christ.
LangSci2 October 2002
This superb portrayal of Christ clearly sets Him on His throne for all the viewers to see. Several scenes suddenly take you inside a masterpiece of art (you think to yourself, I've seen this shot before!) posed as if a famous still-life of the Savior was expanded into a moving picture.
The Book of Mormon has intrigue, violence, deception, murder as well as repentance, patience and love. This film includes each of these elements, ending in the overwhelming message, that Christ is above all of it and God, our Heavenly Father sent Him as a gift "not. . . to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved" Amen and amen!
The Book of Mormon has intrigue, violence, deception, murder as well as repentance, patience and love. This film includes each of these elements, ending in the overwhelming message, that Christ is above all of it and God, our Heavenly Father sent Him as a gift "not. . . to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved" Amen and amen!
Absolutely beautiful!
katran117 July 2005
I saw this film with a non-member friend at our local temple, and we were both touched so deeply. I don't cry often during movies, but The Testaments had tears literally streaming down my face, and my friend's as well! It was just so uplifting, so moving, and so emotional. It was beautifully filmed, with gorgeous settings and was very well acted. The actors portrayed the characters in a manner that made them so real. I felt the spirit so strongly while watching this. I can't recommend this movie enough, for both members of the LDS church and non-members as well. We liked it so much that we went to see it again with my three young daughters. They were all touched by the film, even my youngest who is only 6 years old. Even my non-member friend said that he could feel the presence of the spirit while watching the film, and he is now investigating the church. We can't wait to see this film again and I hope that I can add it to my home library someday.
Awesome!
brianakarobin29 July 2004
I was able to see this movie when I was visiting in Utah in the Fall of 2003.
Although I can't remember all of the details, I do remember the feeling I had watching the movie. It was awesome. this is the most powerfully spiritual film I have seen, surpassing any of the other church films.
As for the movie, I seem to recall that the acting was quite good, the effects were excellent (especially compared to the BOM movie!), and again the story was powerful. It culminates with the Savior's visit to America, and the scene is touching and powerful. I absolutely loved it. 10/10
Although I can't remember all of the details, I do remember the feeling I had watching the movie. It was awesome. this is the most powerfully spiritual film I have seen, surpassing any of the other church films.
As for the movie, I seem to recall that the acting was quite good, the effects were excellent (especially compared to the BOM movie!), and again the story was powerful. It culminates with the Savior's visit to America, and the scene is touching and powerful. I absolutely loved it. 10/10
If you want to feel Christ in your heart, see this movie.
sf_basilix12 November 2005
This short movie just can not be described with words. When watching this movie, especially at the end, tears were forming in my eyes and I felt a closeness to Christ that I can vividly remember to this day. It has inspired me to be a better person as I was able to witness the love of Christ like no other movie. I encourage anyone to watch this movie - whether you are a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints or not. I guarantee you will not be disappointed and you will feel Christ's presence in your heart and be touched. I believe it is still showing in many of the Church's Visitors Centers but may be replaced with a new one that is coming out about Joseph Smith on or around Dec. 24, 2005. See it, before it goes away!
Uplifting, Inspired, AMAZING!
temple_bound26 June 2005
I can't say truly that I have seen very many movies that I would go back and enjoy seeing over and over again consistently. However, after viewing this particular movie, I can. It is a movie about inner struggles, repentance, love, and best of all, faith. When there is no place else to turn and you are confused, you can turn to our Savior and Redeemer. With an ending that will literally leave you in a pile of tears, this movie is superb. Probably the best by far!
I read a comment on here saying that this film was awful. I honestly can't say I understand the logic behind that comment. It is a fantastic missionary movie (and I know because I know of people who saw it, and they became interested in the LDS church.) And also, it is a movie that can relate to us in our day; it can relate to how we struggle inside to find the truth.
TWO THUMBS WAY UP!
I read a comment on here saying that this film was awful. I honestly can't say I understand the logic behind that comment. It is a fantastic missionary movie (and I know because I know of people who saw it, and they became interested in the LDS church.) And also, it is a movie that can relate to us in our day; it can relate to how we struggle inside to find the truth.
TWO THUMBS WAY UP!
Fabulous!
tcs001817 August 2004
What I really liked about this movie was the fact that it used the different styles of movie composition so that anyone who watches the film will get something out of it. If someone likes romance...there is romance. If someone likes intrigue...there's intrigue, etc. The wide ranging movie styles are blended very well into this wonderful and moving movie.
The actors did a fabulous job at portraying what the people may have been like and acted like during the time of Christ on earth in America. It gives people a visual of that time in history which is a great teaching tool. I love this movie and I appreciate all who worked on it.
The actors did a fabulous job at portraying what the people may have been like and acted like during the time of Christ on earth in America. It gives people a visual of that time in history which is a great teaching tool. I love this movie and I appreciate all who worked on it.
Meh
mathewmasongrover18 November 2019
Whether or not it is spiritually uplifting is left to the viewer.
However, as a film, everything about it is pretty mediocre, especially the acting. The music and sound design are nauseating too. It is a competent movie with pretty cool costumes and engaging sets, but I'm baffled as to how this has an 8.0 (at least rn).
Instructions given to Director by First Presidency
curtis_rice12 May 2007
Warning: Spoilers
The substance of this comment was originally written in October of 2005 and I just checked back and saw that it was deleted after an abuse report was received. Other than my comment not being flattering of the LDS church, I don't understand how it violates any guidelines. If it is objected to again, I hope someone will explain how it violates the guidelines. I think it gives those interested in this movie an important insight into the creation process. Those who are so insecure with their beliefs that they feel the need to censor alternative viewpoints are pretty shallow characters.
But on to the movie. I will confirm what many have posted here that this film is very effective at facilitating spiritual feelings in may of its viewers. When I saw it the theater was filled with tears and sniffles at the end.
The movie was generally well directed and the cinematography and art direction were all reasonably well done in comparison to major studio pictures. I don't believe it was as well done as its predecessor, Legacy, however, in the acting department. There were a few parts that didn't ring true for me such as the romance, which seemed poorly developed and unbelievable and a strange moment of levity involving the pet monkey when they were announcing the coming of Christ (seemed a bit irreverent).
The director of this film, Keith Merrill, came to our Ward for a visit and spoke to us about the film. Several things about his comments were interesting and shed insight into the creative guidelines he was given. He said when he met with the First Presidency of the LDS church to discuss what they were looking for to replace Legacy in the Legacy theater he was given wide latitude with only a few requirements. Two are worth expanding on: First, he was told to only cast actors that had temple recommends (or were temple worthy). He was told that this was because of problems that had arisen with actors which had been cast for Legacy. Merrill didn't elaborate but I later asked around and was told by someone who was on their mission at Nauvoo during the filming that the actor that played Joseph Smith in Legacy was openly homosexual and also openly critical of the LDS church during the filming in a way that was (not surprisingly) disconcerting to the many missionaries and LDS crew members present.
There was also another problem with the actress who played the female lead, as it was discovered only after the film was finished that she had appeared nude in two prior movies. (I checked out one of these movies, "The Betsy", in which she is shown seductively disrobing in front of the male lead played by Tommy Lee Jones.) I think this restriction placed by the First Presidency explains what I believe was a comparatively lesser quality in acting since the pool that actors could be drawn from was shallower.
The second instruction, which Merrill said came from President Hinkley, was pretty straightforward -- to make sure that everyone that everyone left the theater in tears. As you can see from other reviews, the director hit the mark there. Consider this story the next time you hear someone say they felt the "spirit" in any LDS movie.
But on to the movie. I will confirm what many have posted here that this film is very effective at facilitating spiritual feelings in may of its viewers. When I saw it the theater was filled with tears and sniffles at the end.
The movie was generally well directed and the cinematography and art direction were all reasonably well done in comparison to major studio pictures. I don't believe it was as well done as its predecessor, Legacy, however, in the acting department. There were a few parts that didn't ring true for me such as the romance, which seemed poorly developed and unbelievable and a strange moment of levity involving the pet monkey when they were announcing the coming of Christ (seemed a bit irreverent).
The director of this film, Keith Merrill, came to our Ward for a visit and spoke to us about the film. Several things about his comments were interesting and shed insight into the creative guidelines he was given. He said when he met with the First Presidency of the LDS church to discuss what they were looking for to replace Legacy in the Legacy theater he was given wide latitude with only a few requirements. Two are worth expanding on: First, he was told to only cast actors that had temple recommends (or were temple worthy). He was told that this was because of problems that had arisen with actors which had been cast for Legacy. Merrill didn't elaborate but I later asked around and was told by someone who was on their mission at Nauvoo during the filming that the actor that played Joseph Smith in Legacy was openly homosexual and also openly critical of the LDS church during the filming in a way that was (not surprisingly) disconcerting to the many missionaries and LDS crew members present.
There was also another problem with the actress who played the female lead, as it was discovered only after the film was finished that she had appeared nude in two prior movies. (I checked out one of these movies, "The Betsy", in which she is shown seductively disrobing in front of the male lead played by Tommy Lee Jones.) I think this restriction placed by the First Presidency explains what I believe was a comparatively lesser quality in acting since the pool that actors could be drawn from was shallower.
The second instruction, which Merrill said came from President Hinkley, was pretty straightforward -- to make sure that everyone that everyone left the theater in tears. As you can see from other reviews, the director hit the mark there. Consider this story the next time you hear someone say they felt the "spirit" in any LDS movie.
It's out!
tralston55519 March 2007
I love this movie so much. I've recently been struggling with so many problems in my own life, and I can say it can be really hard to understand who you are in such a confusing world. I recently discovered that this movie has been RELEASED on DVD. I was so excited I went and bought one right away. They are currently only available through the LDS Church Distribution Service. If you live in Utah, you may visit a store, or if not, you can order one online. At such a reasonable price of $4.50, I couldn't refuse. To order online, go to http://www.ldscatalog.com and search for the title (or look under videos). This really is a special opportunity to share with family and friends!
Religious indoctrination
jaustenaa10 June 2010
The movie is well enough, entertaining and involving with "ok" acting. But the religious indoctrination and dogmas are plentiful in the comments. Dogmas are simplified explanations to difficult/complex questions. The obvious one here is the good feeling you get when you see this movie. Mormons will swear it is the holy ghost you feel, skeptics claim it is a normal feeling you can have many other places, and in any other religion. One way to test it is in a double-blind placebo controlled environment, but religious groups wants you to jump to their conclusion. The hymn played after the movie try to double the effect. It's sad so many people are caught unprepared by missionaries and feel they discover something and want to believe before the had a chance to get counter- arguments.
Religious organizations have specialized themselves on arguments from their side of the discussion and are trying to keep the keys to heaven for themselves. This religious self- deception and indoctrination is not good for your mind, or soul (in case we have one). Let yourself be moved, but keep your mind in place while you watch this movie.
Religious organizations have specialized themselves on arguments from their side of the discussion and are trying to keep the keys to heaven for themselves. This religious self- deception and indoctrination is not good for your mind, or soul (in case we have one). Let yourself be moved, but keep your mind in place while you watch this movie.
Awful and Entirely Based on Fiction
karazorel-4629928 November 2015
SO GROSS and SICK = The story of a WHITE Jesus coming to the Americas to save the BROWN natives from their sins and barbarity. Never mind the white actors like Jeremy Hoop in brown face for the starring role. Extremely racist is this film and filled with falsities.
Joseph Smith, the author of the Book of Mormon the story that this film is about, plagiarized other source material for his book big time then sold it off as religion. Smith used elements of fictional stories that he read as a child: Adventures of Captain Kidd who sailed to the island of Camora (Comoros) with the largest and still capital city called Moroni these are Arabic names. Or "View of the Hebrews" by Ethan Smith that Oliver Cowdery, who knew Ethan Smith, introduced Joseph Smith to it. Some major elements in the book: Hebrews leave old to new world, light and dark skinned people, sin and wickedness, and a Messiah visiting America.
B.H. Roberts, in the Mormon hierarchy, said, "In the light of this evidence, there can be no doubt as to the possession of a vividly strong, creative imagination by Joseph Smith, the Prophet, an imagination, it could with reason be urged, which, given the suggestions that are to be found in the 'common knowledge' of accepted American antiquities of the times, supplemented by such a work as Ethan Smith's View of the Hebrews, would make it possible for him to create a book such as the Book of Mormon is," Studies of the Book of Mormon. Not enough sappy music can mask the hideous roots to this film.
Joseph Smith, the author of the Book of Mormon the story that this film is about, plagiarized other source material for his book big time then sold it off as religion. Smith used elements of fictional stories that he read as a child: Adventures of Captain Kidd who sailed to the island of Camora (Comoros) with the largest and still capital city called Moroni these are Arabic names. Or "View of the Hebrews" by Ethan Smith that Oliver Cowdery, who knew Ethan Smith, introduced Joseph Smith to it. Some major elements in the book: Hebrews leave old to new world, light and dark skinned people, sin and wickedness, and a Messiah visiting America.
B.H. Roberts, in the Mormon hierarchy, said, "In the light of this evidence, there can be no doubt as to the possession of a vividly strong, creative imagination by Joseph Smith, the Prophet, an imagination, it could with reason be urged, which, given the suggestions that are to be found in the 'common knowledge' of accepted American antiquities of the times, supplemented by such a work as Ethan Smith's View of the Hebrews, would make it possible for him to create a book such as the Book of Mormon is," Studies of the Book of Mormon. Not enough sappy music can mask the hideous roots to this film.
A Transcendent Triumph . . . if you're Mormon
reddiguy4 April 2002
Not to say that being a Mormon, or, more correctly, a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is wrong; however, those not familiar with LDS tenets and fundamental doctrines journeying to see this film in Salt Lake City, Utah, or who potentially see it via LDS acquaintances will most likely not be as riveted by the emotionally charged film as those who are. It certainly is meant to rivet and inspire, not to prod our intellect or demand art house enthusiasts'attention, and as most transcendent works it will seem either too sentimental or downright saccharine, but it is so because it caters to an audience whose faith is cradled in its lofty content, such as the visit of Christ to the Americas. For those inclined to study LDS beliefs, and to grasp the exultant joy and adulation they feel for Jesus Christ, this film is a dramatic example of their faith. For those wanting to dive into intellectual quandaries and secular cinematic debate, there are more appropriate venues.
The Spirit is so strong, you feel transported to another world...
singerbev23 March 2004
I am a latecomer to see this movie, but the impact it has had on my life is indescribable. My desire to become more like my Savior has increased a hundredfold. My heart melted at the healing power He brought to everyone He met, and I wept deeply sorrowful tears as he suffered in Gethsemane, was beaten, spit upon and crucified for me.
The beautiful story of Jacob could most definitely have happened, and really is the story of so many of us, symbolically.
The scenes of the Savior blessing and teaching the people of the Americas, especially the scenes with the little children, is profound and spiritual and made me wish I'd been there. The immense, unearthly joy you feel at the end of the movie will shake your soul forever...
The beautiful story of Jacob could most definitely have happened, and really is the story of so many of us, symbolically.
The scenes of the Savior blessing and teaching the people of the Americas, especially the scenes with the little children, is profound and spiritual and made me wish I'd been there. The immense, unearthly joy you feel at the end of the movie will shake your soul forever...
The Spirit is so intense in this movie... my soul fills with peace...
me-4764 August 2004
The first time I saw this movie was last Fall (2003). My soul was deeply touched and I could barely breathe as I exited the Legacy Theatre.
As I saw the intense love portrayed in the Savior's eyes and witnessed it in His actions, the tears flowed freely. I wanted so much to leave there and act as He did, lifting others burdens and reaching out in love to more people. The portrayal of the Savior is exactly how I have pictured Him in my mind since I was a small child. The ending of The Testaments is breathtaking and will have you weeping at the depth of love and caring Jesus Christ feels for each of us as individuals.
Since that first viewing I have returned 5 more times to see it, each time drinking deeply from the spirit of this movie, and each time wanting to find more ways to be positive. The Spirit is so intense in this movie... my soul fills with peace each time I go to see it.
I can't wait until this is available on DVD. =)
As I saw the intense love portrayed in the Savior's eyes and witnessed it in His actions, the tears flowed freely. I wanted so much to leave there and act as He did, lifting others burdens and reaching out in love to more people. The portrayal of the Savior is exactly how I have pictured Him in my mind since I was a small child. The ending of The Testaments is breathtaking and will have you weeping at the depth of love and caring Jesus Christ feels for each of us as individuals.
Since that first viewing I have returned 5 more times to see it, each time drinking deeply from the spirit of this movie, and each time wanting to find more ways to be positive. The Spirit is so intense in this movie... my soul fills with peace each time I go to see it.
I can't wait until this is available on DVD. =)
I don't count church films in my all time favourite list
ilovewrestling1829 September 2005
But if I made one for the church, this would be number one. I have balled like a baby in few movies, but this was one of them. I felt like I should make a stronger effort in so many areas of my life, and I knew exactly what I should work on. I am so grateful for being able to see this. If I ever went blind I would forever remember the image of Helam looking up into Jesus' eyes after being healed. I looked around and even my cousin who never cries in movies was shedding tears like I have never seen outside a funeral. I am so happy to have seen this and I wish I could get a copy for me to watch over and over again. I will share this with my children and nieces and nephews. It is something special.
Good movie to see in SLC
beccaleigh7914 August 2001
This is an excellent movie to watch if you are visiting the Salt Lake City area. It is an excellent film combining spirit with film. I would also suggest visiting the Visitors Center to see Legacy. If you need a time to get your bearings staight, visit Temple Square and see this movie. It's excellent!!!
Christian Reviewer Surprised by Quality and Emotional Impact
bendixenhaven3 July 2021
As a movie reviewer, I found this film surprisingly good-- very good-- for a low-budget Christian movie. It has good acting, esp. From the evil antagonist, very good production values-- quality sound, stunning photography, special effects, etc.
The family relationships are touching. As a father, I was moved by the interaction with the prodigal son.
Be forewarned, the film delivers a big emotional impact at the end. I sat in my seat for a long time after the show was over.
The family relationships are touching. As a father, I was moved by the interaction with the prodigal son.
Be forewarned, the film delivers a big emotional impact at the end. I sat in my seat for a long time after the show was over.
8.3 out of 10... 111 votes, go figure
marsoullis13 April 2006
This show made me rather sick to my stomach.
"I felt the Spirit." 'Yeah, I felt it too." "Yeah... now let's make out!"
One would think, out of all the great stories shared in the Book of Mormon, that good ol' Kieth and the gang could've actually picked one of them to depict. But no, there's no smooching in the Book of Mormon. And it's inevitable -- the defamation of many Saints will in part be executed through the Hollywoodization of America. More power to 'em, I guess.
We don't need no history! (We don't need no history!) "Testaments" on DVD! (Testaments on DVD!) We don't need to read the book! (We don't need to read the book!) Saw this show and now we're hooked! (Saw this show and now we're hooked!)
OK enough cynicism. Let's be honest with ourselves and get back to the basics.
"I felt the Spirit." 'Yeah, I felt it too." "Yeah... now let's make out!"
One would think, out of all the great stories shared in the Book of Mormon, that good ol' Kieth and the gang could've actually picked one of them to depict. But no, there's no smooching in the Book of Mormon. And it's inevitable -- the defamation of many Saints will in part be executed through the Hollywoodization of America. More power to 'em, I guess.
We don't need no history! (We don't need no history!) "Testaments" on DVD! (Testaments on DVD!) We don't need to read the book! (We don't need to read the book!) Saw this show and now we're hooked! (Saw this show and now we're hooked!)
OK enough cynicism. Let's be honest with ourselves and get back to the basics.
Excellent evocative film.
vinniemac-5711226 October 2022
A very good depiction of the visit by Christ to the Americas as described in the Book of Mormon. The ending is especially emotional and very thought provoking. It is well acted and the storyline, although fictional as far as the characters are concerned, it is well conceived and presented. There are snippets of the story of Christ taken from the New Testament and portrayed and the raising of Lazarus is particularly good. The portrayal of the events from the Book of Mormon are well done and for such a small production there was a good effort to portray to ancient city, it was a very good movie set of the city Bountiful.
BrownFace
aaronjudd-4473613 March 2019
A Product of Poor Judgment
jcduffy27 May 2002
At the risk of being accused of speaking evil of the Lord's anointed, I have to say that this film represents poor judgment on the part of the LDS leaders who conceived and approved it.
Over the years, the LDS Church has made some fine missionary films: "Man's Search for Happiness," "Together Forever," "How Rare a Possession," "The Mountain of the Lord," "Legacy." True, these films are emotionally heavy-handed. They're not calculated to win praise for their subtlety, or irony, or ambiguity, or provocativeness, or originality, or any of the other qualities that make for great cinema by the standards of literary criticism. But these films aren't trying to meet those standards. They're proselyting tools. And judged by the standards of that genre, I think the films I've listed above are well-conceived and well-made.
I cannot say the same for "Testaments." This film is to the Book of Mormon what "The Ten Commandments" is to the Book of Exodus or what "Ben Hur" is to the Gospels--and I don't intend those to be flattering comparisons. I'm reminded of a comment made by a character in LDS playwright Eric Samuelsen's drama "Gadianton": "It is pretty awful. I mean, that book's supposed to be scripture, and they turn it into this cheesy melodrama."
In the south visitors center on Temple Square, they used to show a short film that, like "Testaments," set scenes from Christ's ministry in the Old World (as described in the Gospels) side-by-side with scenes from his ministry in the New World (as described in the Book of Mormon). The film was moving and did a fine job of presenting the Book of Mormon as Christ-centered and as a companion volume to the Bible. Most importantly, in my opinion, this film presented the Book of Mormon with the dignity owed to a sacred text.
In "Testaments," that dignity is seriously compromised. What we get in "Testaments" is part scripture, part romance, part courtroom thriller, part political thriller, part disaster flick, part family values entertainment, and part Indiana Jones-style adventure.
Dare I say that this film represents the literatures of men mingled with scripture?
Walking into "Testaments" today (my second viewing), I heard an LDS teenager ahead of me say that she's seen this film six times. Afterwards, I heard this same teenager and her mother commenting, between sniffles, on how the ending always "gets them." OK. So the film's a tear-jerker. If I want to see a good tear-jerker, I can go to my local cineplex or video rental store. A good missionary film has to do more than make people cry. What I want to know is: Does "Testaments" convince non-LDS viewers to take the Book of Mormon seriously as a sacred text? Does it inspire viewers--LDS or non-LDS--to live more Christlike lives?
Let me clarify: I have nothing per se against fictionalizations of scripture, and I believe that God is great enough to touch people's lives even through cheesy fictionalizations of scripture. I haven't heard any yet, but I'm sure testimonials are forthcoming from people whose lives were transformed by this film.
But a fictionalization of scripture is not scripture. "The Ten Commandments" is not the Book of Exodus. "Ben Hur" is not the Gospels. "Testaments" is not the Book of Mormon. It should therefore not be used in place of the Book of Mormon, which is exactly what's happening every time this film is screened. People who ought to be watching a film designed to showcase the spiritual power of the Book of Mormon are instead being shown a fictionalization of the Book of Mormon designed to make them cry. They're being cheated.
Over the years, the LDS Church has made some fine missionary films: "Man's Search for Happiness," "Together Forever," "How Rare a Possession," "The Mountain of the Lord," "Legacy." True, these films are emotionally heavy-handed. They're not calculated to win praise for their subtlety, or irony, or ambiguity, or provocativeness, or originality, or any of the other qualities that make for great cinema by the standards of literary criticism. But these films aren't trying to meet those standards. They're proselyting tools. And judged by the standards of that genre, I think the films I've listed above are well-conceived and well-made.
I cannot say the same for "Testaments." This film is to the Book of Mormon what "The Ten Commandments" is to the Book of Exodus or what "Ben Hur" is to the Gospels--and I don't intend those to be flattering comparisons. I'm reminded of a comment made by a character in LDS playwright Eric Samuelsen's drama "Gadianton": "It is pretty awful. I mean, that book's supposed to be scripture, and they turn it into this cheesy melodrama."
In the south visitors center on Temple Square, they used to show a short film that, like "Testaments," set scenes from Christ's ministry in the Old World (as described in the Gospels) side-by-side with scenes from his ministry in the New World (as described in the Book of Mormon). The film was moving and did a fine job of presenting the Book of Mormon as Christ-centered and as a companion volume to the Bible. Most importantly, in my opinion, this film presented the Book of Mormon with the dignity owed to a sacred text.
In "Testaments," that dignity is seriously compromised. What we get in "Testaments" is part scripture, part romance, part courtroom thriller, part political thriller, part disaster flick, part family values entertainment, and part Indiana Jones-style adventure.
Dare I say that this film represents the literatures of men mingled with scripture?
Walking into "Testaments" today (my second viewing), I heard an LDS teenager ahead of me say that she's seen this film six times. Afterwards, I heard this same teenager and her mother commenting, between sniffles, on how the ending always "gets them." OK. So the film's a tear-jerker. If I want to see a good tear-jerker, I can go to my local cineplex or video rental store. A good missionary film has to do more than make people cry. What I want to know is: Does "Testaments" convince non-LDS viewers to take the Book of Mormon seriously as a sacred text? Does it inspire viewers--LDS or non-LDS--to live more Christlike lives?
Let me clarify: I have nothing per se against fictionalizations of scripture, and I believe that God is great enough to touch people's lives even through cheesy fictionalizations of scripture. I haven't heard any yet, but I'm sure testimonials are forthcoming from people whose lives were transformed by this film.
But a fictionalization of scripture is not scripture. "The Ten Commandments" is not the Book of Exodus. "Ben Hur" is not the Gospels. "Testaments" is not the Book of Mormon. It should therefore not be used in place of the Book of Mormon, which is exactly what's happening every time this film is screened. People who ought to be watching a film designed to showcase the spiritual power of the Book of Mormon are instead being shown a fictionalization of the Book of Mormon designed to make them cry. They're being cheated.
Can you feel the spirit in a poorly made film?
carlilelance24 July 2011
My review of this film is strictly honest from a film point of view. Can you feel the spirit in a poorly made film? Of course, but that doesn't make it a good film. The only good actor in this film was the man who played the villain (non-LDS by the way). The script was very weak. Jesus looked, talked, and all but acted like any hippie you could find at Woodstock. The film was very contrived, and it is difficult who to blame for this. At times the directing was decent but other times abysmal, so it was probably way over-produced. On the good side, (as I already mentioned) the villain was very, very good. The special effects were well-done, the sound was good, and the soundtrack, although not particularly memorable, was fine. If you're the kind of person who thinks good storytelling is important, this is not the film for you. If you just want to ignore the bad storytelling and feel good about the underlying themes, then you'll do just fine watching it.
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