Samuel the Lamanite

Samuel the Lamanite is my daughter's favorite movie in the whole world, and it definitely ranks in my top ten. Like the rest of the fabulous Liken series, a very serious and touching message is conveyed through a mixture of much delightful silliness and much wonderful music.

Only a few movies have the ability to make me cry tears of joy every single time I watch it, without fail. This is one of those movies. It asks important questions, such as "What is really important to stand up for?" and answers them powerfully.

The historical story of Samuel the Lamanite is told accurately, though from the point of view of a kid's imagination. This means that not everything looks or sounds just like it did anciently. This is a big advantage because it allows for much subtle (and not so subtle) humor.

The musical numbers and dancing are very good, especially the Nephite Archery Corps' song and "The Time Has Come", as well as the song at the very end. I also enjoy "All's Well in Zion" and the Mariachi number "Another Year."

The bad guys have the best leading roles in this movie. I especially enjoyed the performances of George Dyer as Nimrod / Dr. Dormin and Clayton Vance as the leader of the N.A.C. Both managed to be very convincing and yet still support the lighthearted tone of the movie. Lauren Faber and Frank Gerrish also really stand out as Amelia and her butler.

Samuel the Lamanite can be considered a Christmas story, since it involves the birth or Christ, but it is really much more than that. It is a story of love and faith, and standing up for what is right. Our family watches and enjoys this movie all year round. Watching it on Christmas day is just an extra bonus.