The Work and the Glory
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Movie Reviews of The Work and the Glory
Movie Review: Great Movie!
Summary: 5 Stars
This movie was very well done. It was sweet, clean and wholesome. The acting was supurb. I loved it and highly recommend it to anyone.Movie Review: You don't have to agree with the theology to appreciate the quality
Summary: 4 Stars
I rate this movie based upon similar films in the overt religious fiction genre. So, compared with the Book of Mormon movie, Left Behind I, II, III, etc. The Work and the Glory stands out for having more natural dialogue, and for avoiding the feel of a budget film.
As a propaganda piece, I'm sure the LDS Church was satisfied, though this was not an official production. Perhaps the most dynamic scene, from this preacher's perspective, is when Joseph explains to young Steed that he was told to join none of the churches. He then flash backs to a scene where a preacher is explaining the doctrine of predestination, and some members object and walk out. Apparently Joseph was scandalized by the discord. The Book of Mormon has even stronger language in this regard. This film presented the dilemma, but played down the implication--Joseph telling Steed he knows the idea is hard to take.
Odd observations: Joseph's voice has an odd fullness to it--almost as if the sound folks artificially made it that way. Additionally, his features were often lighted in a way that seemed a bit much. Those who followed Joseph, or who at least remained open to him were similarly given an almost angelic look--cleaner clothes, lighter, cleaner skin. Those who opposed him came to appear rough, unkempt, and darkened. The problem with such subtleties is that they weren't very subtle. Another reviewer noted that the good/bad perspective, while effective, was somehow dishonest. I'm not sure that's reasonable. This film should be seen as religious fiction--it's meant to have a pro-church message.
Bottom-line: Catholics and non-LDS Christians will not like this movie. It's primarily meant to be "faith-affirming" for Mormons, and a soft-sell invitation for the curious. As such it does quite well. If you're open to Mormon fictional story-telling, this one is probably among the best. Otherwise, steer clear.
Movie Review: Good movie
Summary: 4 Stars
I didn't read the book that this is based on, so I can't compare the two, but as a movie it was decent. It's nice to have something to watch that's clean.Movie Review: This is a really good family movie!
Summary: 4 Stars
I really loved the message in this movie. It is a great movie to watch with children. I recommend for any mormon family.Movie Review: More labored than the Hoover dam.
Summary: 3 Stars
The series of books by Gerald Lund were well-written and it was hard to put them down. The films on the other hand...sigh. The acting was overdone and labored. There were times when it was too sweet (keep an air-sick bag handy). The bad folks were more like comic-opera heavies. Not much intimidation here. The style of language and the emotions behind the speaking appear to me to be quintessentially 1980's...not 1830's. Also, I was amazed at how clean everybody appeared. Not many dirty hands/fingernails...clothes always in good condition. Didn't see many patches or stains. My work clothes do not come totally clean with a washing machine! These farmers must put the washboards on a double spin cycle. The capped teeth were too much.
On the bright side the film did take you back to some significant events in the Church's history. You can get an idea of what it was like just being there in the 1820s-1830s (ala 1980s).