The Other Side of Heaven
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Movie Reviews of The Other Side of Heaven
Movie Review: A movie about faith, without denominational overtones
Summary: 5 Stars
Sure, this movie is about a Mormon missionary. That fact, for some reason, is enough in-and-of-itself to scare many people away (and I can see why, after watching the abominable movie "God's Army," which stuffs, rams, and forces Mormonism down your throat by trying to make the missionaries seem like just 'one of the guys'). In this film, however, it is not young Elder Groberg's religion which is important--rather it is his selfless service and message of hope and love which make this film what it is. In fact, Disney does a great job of keeping references to Mormonism to a minimum, instead keeping the message one which all Christians should be able to relate to. Groberg has some interesting experiences in his three years in Tonga--death, disease, natural disasters, and many other events mold not only him but the community at large. He struggles with the language and has both difficulties and triumphs in his work. At times, it seems he must take on the whole world, but each time he meets the challenge head-on with a fierce determination and a courage which are extremely admirable.
Above all, this is a message about faith. It doesn't matter your religion, this movie will move and inspire you if you let it. It doesn't push Mormonism on anyone, and that is perhaps what makes it so powerful. The impact would be the same if the missionary were from any other faith. I cannot praise this movie enough, nor recommend it sufficiently to anyone who wants of be uplifted and enlightened by a courageous story of faith.
Movie Review: This Side of Heaven for me.
Summary: 5 Stars
... Had I known [this movie] was about a Morman missionary in Tonga I probably would never had gone. Well, somebody up there likes me. I am glad I went.It was a beautiful story but realistic also. Having spent 3 years myself in the mission field in another culture (Alaskan native peoples) I could relate. The film had everything from humor like when the young elder gives his first speech in the language of the people. He confuses the word "Lighthouse" with "Outhouse." The audience both on screen and in the theatre laughed long and loud for that one. Serious moments too like when he prays for the child thought dead - exciting moments on the sea, hurricane, and ordinary times of prayer, fasting, and feasting. Ann Hathaway does a good job as the girl who is left back home - the faithful letter writer of 3 years. I would liked to have seen more of her in the story. The people who played the native islanders were excellent and darn near stole the show. But then it wasn't really a show to be stolen. Just a good story, that's what! However, I rest my promotion and am not ready to convert to the LDS but I did learn more about their courage and love for all of God's people. I respect that and I respect this more than adequate, gentle, and fine telling of a real young man's story.
Movie Review: Endearing Film
Summary: 5 Stars
You don't have to be a Mormon to appreciate this fine yet simple true story of young John Groberg on his mission to the island of Tonga. Language barriers, sweltering heat, torrid storms and starvation are just few of the challenges Groberg encounters as he attempts to to spread the Good News to the people of Tonga. With persistence and strong faith, young Groberg is able to make headway with the Tongans, and over time they come to respect him. He, too, becomes a part of their lives and experiences deep emotional attachments to the people and their way of life.
As Groberg spiritually begins to mature, he also begins to grow emotionally. Bonded by letters written to his High School sweetheart back home, aptly portrayed by the sweet and wholesome Anne Hathaway, their initial friendship over the years turns to admiration and eventually into deep love.
Albeit there is somewhat of an "after-school special" feel to the film, this is a great story about patience, faith and true love in the toughest of times. Watch it.
Movie Review: Keep the family shows coming.
Summary: 5 Stars
I am grateful to see that there can be some entertaining and inpiring yet wholesome movies out there. I really liked this movie. I gave it 5 stars because what it may have lacked in acting and expensive special effects it makes up for with the teaching of good principles and PG cleanliness. There are many who bash on this because they have a different idea of Mormonism and think we have some hidden agenda. I can only ask you to step out of your ignorance on the subject and take an open-minded and open-hearted look at "Mormonism". Having served an honorable LDS mission I can empathize with some of the difficulties faced by Elder Groberg. I have read some negative reviews here saying many things portrayed in the film were unbelievable. I'm here to tell you that while serving a mission one will see the most incredible things ranging from absolutely comical to heart-wrenching to nothing short of miraculous. Go walk a mile in a missionaries shoes before you pass judgement. Great film, keep 'em comin'.Movie Review: Insightful
Summary: 5 Stars
So many things in our popular culture deaden our sensitivity. Some become incapable of seeing, hearing or understanding others pain, lack empathy or desire even to empathize. To these, please don't get this film. Having sent a young son and a daughter across the globe to be on their own and struggle with the challenges each faced, I see this as a great adventure film. I think of all the Catholic films that have highlighted aspects of character over the century of film making and think how poor we would all be if we didn't have those examples of integrity. I think of other films like "Its a Wonderful Life", black and white, lacking special effects, but still the favorite of so many. This film is on my list of must see. A line from a popular movie seems appropriate, ....it makes me "want to be a better man".