Witnesses

The film focuses on real people as they live through extra-ordinary events, The history aspect is more a backdrop in the lives and emotions of the characters. Too often, Church History genre of films are overshadowed by speculation, conspiracy, or are too focused on depicting key points in their portrayal of historical figures, actions, events and their context. Refreshingly, this film did not go there, leaving the audience to be entertained rather than schooled. This movie is about people, not a Prophet, nor a Church, nor a book (though these 3 things play a crucial role and are portrayed with painstaking historical accuracy in my opinion.) But as such, the film may leave unfamiliar movie-goers with lots of questions about the Prophet, the Church, and the Book of Mormon. For example, my wife asked whether the early Church didn't baptize woman.

I really enjoyed this film.

First, it was not cheesy like many can be in this genre.

Second, the acting, cinematography, music, editing, sets, costumes, etc. Were all very well done and professional. This was a very well-built film.

Third, the story jumped around a lot chronologically. While that can make for a more interesting film - and people already familiar with the origins of the Church probably followed the story just fine - those who are less familiar with the founding of the Church will probably be confused at times.

For example, why is Joseph Smith falling? Oh, never mind; it was just a dream. Wait, he's dead? Was that from the fall or something else?

The scene only makes sense if you already know the story.

But perhaps my favorite thing about the film is that it didn't shy away from the controversial parts of Church history. Rather than gloss over them or skip them altogether, the film showed how those events impacted the decisions of early Church members and leaders.

The film gives color to the black and white understanding many of us think we have of these people.

As a result, I have so much more appreciation and respect for David Whitmer, Martin Harris, and Oliver Cowdery.

If you are a Latter-day Saint, this is a must-see movie.

I'm looking forward to owning it when it comes out on disc.

Tons of antagonists of the church are rating this movie hoping it will make them feel better about their lives. This movie is amazing! I saw it in theaters and bought the movie as soon as I could. It's a beautiful depiction of the events with the 3 witnesses of the Book of Mormon translation. I would highly recommend this movie to everyone!

Witnesses is a well done film based on a true story. It is not a documentary but a well scripted portrayal of the Witnesses of the Book of Mormon. The director captures the beauty and suffering of the day and the music is beautiful. It is entertaining and inspirational and captures the most important message that no matter what the witnesses faced, they stayed true to their testimony of what they saw and witnessed.

The acting was well done and whether or not you are a Christian or a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, this film is uplifting showing the strength of the human spirit. I highly recommend.

The church use to excommunicate people for teaching that Joseph Smith translated from a hat. Most of this is white washed history.