The Testaments of One Fold and One Shepherd

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

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!

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.

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).

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.