Review of God's Army (2000) by J Brigham H — 27 Jan 2013

Many real-life Mormons quibble over the improbabilities and downright inaccuracies regarding missionary procedure and behavior that abound this shoestring budgeted indie drama; I for one have always allotted greater value to the quality of a film than the accuracy. There are several significant problems with GOD'S ARMY, but they are outdone by the soulful ambition and heartfelt sincerity. In this film, director Richard Dutcher is only beginning, and his talent shows greater polish in later films.

It's basically a Mormon missionary soap opera, and melodrama is where the film slips up most often, with strain on credulity at times and some overblown drama, but the themes of spirituality and crises of faith are very insightful, and though perceived through the prism of Mormonism, they relevant to all people of faith. Unfortunately, in spite of all it has to offer them, it is not likely to do much for orthodox Mormons because such viewers are prone to relate it to real life and stress over issues of representation. However, with an elementary knowledge of Mormons, non-Mormons may find much edification and insight, as well as for liberal Mormons.