We are reminded of the need to be tolerant. This is a topic that has been applied in film and across society to most persecuted minorities. Finally it is being addressed to the Mormons, and is long overdue. Since I am a Mormon and an adherent to the Latter-day Saint teachings, I can vouch for the fact that the film is about the need for tolerance amongst us all, and not a vehicle for evangelism. Even the Mormon victims themselves show tolerance toward their persecutors. There is a vital lesson there, though again it is not preachy or didactic by any means.
The word "lesson" may be a misnomer; perhaps "underlying message" is the key phrase. Thus the film's "underlying message" is not intended to teach, but to captivate the mind as an essential element in the human experience, much as any other basic element would be applied in building a story's interest: Just as intolerance is used to strengthen the story behind "Bridge on the River Kwai," or "Holocaust." The cinematography is absolutely excellent; even stunning and entrancing. I can think of no film that would be its superior in that regard. The acting is superb, incisive, and balanced. I disagree with the one commenter who suggested some acting was fine, though some was forced. The director has achieved a masterpiece of cohesive, balanced, and momentous acting.
The period is perfectly recreated in historic and scenic detail. I saw viewers at the theatre of ever age and social background perfectly entertained and satisfied with this film. The audience even applauded, an event I have not witnessed at a cinema in decades.
Love is also wonderfully dealt with in the film. There are periodic and well-timed flourishes of romance the way it used to be acted out in films decades ago: with decency and enchantment, and with no need for sleeze. Moreover, the romantic scenes show true human love and passion can be bounteously enjoyed within the bounds of decency and self-restraint.
This is a period-piece of cinematic charm that transcends time barriers, to enchant the mind, fascinate the eye, and provoke sincere thought.
The word "lesson" may be a misnomer; perhaps "underlying message" is the key phrase. Thus the film's "underlying message" is not intended to teach, but to captivate the mind as an essential element in the human experience, much as any other basic element would be applied in building a story's interest: Just as intolerance is used to strengthen the story behind "Bridge on the River Kwai," or "Holocaust." The cinematography is absolutely excellent; even stunning and entrancing. I can think of no film that would be its superior in that regard. The acting is superb, incisive, and balanced. I disagree with the one commenter who suggested some acting was fine, though some was forced. The director has achieved a masterpiece of cohesive, balanced, and momentous acting.
The period is perfectly recreated in historic and scenic detail. I saw viewers at the theatre of ever age and social background perfectly entertained and satisfied with this film. The audience even applauded, an event I have not witnessed at a cinema in decades.
Love is also wonderfully dealt with in the film. There are periodic and well-timed flourishes of romance the way it used to be acted out in films decades ago: with decency and enchantment, and with no need for sleeze. Moreover, the romantic scenes show true human love and passion can be bounteously enjoyed within the bounds of decency and self-restraint.
This is a period-piece of cinematic charm that transcends time barriers, to enchant the mind, fascinate the eye, and provoke sincere thought.