11 Insightful Documentaries On Mormons
Documentaries have always been a great way for many people to learn about different cultures and religions. It allows individuals who may not have first-hand experiences to accurately understand the traditions and beliefs of different groups of people.
In this blog post, we will be exploring the top eleven documentaries that shed light on the experiences of the Mormon community. From the history of the Mormons to the struggles of modern-day Mormons, these documentaries delve deep into the realities of this religious group.
History of Mormons (2018)
Documentary Central: The History of Mormons documentary, which aired in 2018, explores the origins of the religion and how it has changed throughout the years. It takes viewers on a journey through the significant moments in Mormon history, including the establishment of Salt Lake City, and the impact of the Mormon Church on Utah.
The documentary also examines the discrimination the religion has faced in the past, such as being labelled as a cult, and the challenges it continues to face in modern society.
Murder Among The Mormons (2021)
This true-crime documentary explores a shocking event that took place in the early 1980s involving the Salt Lake City bombings.
The documentary investigates the complexities surrounding this event, including the connection between the bombings and the religious community of Mormons, which eventually led to the unearthing of a conspiracy within the community itself. Murder Among The Mormons shows viewers the dark side of the religion and provides an inside look at the intricate workings of the Mormon church.
Operation Toussaint (2018)
This documentary sheds light on a different aspect of the Mormon community. Operation Toussaint highlights a group of people who identify as Mormons and their work in locating and rescuing children from being trafficked.
The documentary follows Tim Ballard, a former government agent, and his team as they go undercover to identify human traffickers in different parts of the world. While not exclusively focused on Mormons, this documentary showcases the work of a group of individuals affiliated with the religion and highlights the impact that their beliefs have on their desire to fight against injustice.
Meet the Mormons (2016)
This documentary features interviews with six individuals who are members of the Mormon community and gives viewers an insight into their daily lives.
It showcases how Mormons live, work, and raise their families, with a focus on how their faith influences their everyday decisions. Each interviewee offers a unique perspective, from a professional football player to a musician, highlighting that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to being a Mormon.
New York Doll (2005)
This 2005 documentary follows the life of Arthur Kane, the bassist for the popular rock band New York Dolls. It explores his journey of redemption following the band's breakup and his struggles with alcoholism, until he found solace in the Mormon church.
The documentary takes viewers on a journey through Kane's musical career and his religious journey as he reconnects with old friends from the band and joins the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The Secret World Of Mormonism (2003)
This documentary delves into the hidden world of Mormonism, revealing fascinating insights into the practices and beliefs of the religion.
It explores the controversial history of the church, including the reasons behind the church's secretive nature, and how its founder Joseph Smith influenced many of its teachings. The documentary also touches on modern controversies such as polygamy and LGBT rights.
Us and Them (2015)
This film focuses on the relationship between the Mormon Church and the LGBTQ community, exploring the unique challenges faced by those who are both Mormon and LGBTQ.
Director Kristine Stolakis tells the story of several individuals who have been excommunicated from the church due to their sexual orientation, and how they continue to struggle with their faith and identity. It is an eye-opening look at the ongoing tensions between the religious and LGBTQ communities.
Boys of Bonneville (2011)
This documentary tells the story of land speed racer Ab Jenkins, a devout Mormon who set numerous land speed records during the 1930s and 40s.
It provides an interesting and unique perspective on the religious community, as we learn how Jenkins' faith impacted his views on racing and how he used his success to promote the church.
Mitt (2013)
This documentary follows the life of Mitt Romney, a prominent Mormon who ran for President of the United States in 2012. It provides an inside look at his family, his political career, and his faith.
The documentary also explores the conflict between Romney's political ambitions and his religious beliefs, providing insight into the challenges facing many devout Mormons who hold public office.
A Matter of Principle Mormon Polygamy Documentary (1990)
This documentary explores the controversial subject of polygamy within the Mormon Church. It examines the lives of polygamous families, including their daily routines, how they raise their children, and how they navigate the legal and social challenges faced by their lifestyle.
A Matter of Principle Mormon Polygamy Documentary
Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey (2022)
The Netflix docuseries Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey produced by Emmy-winning filmmaker Rachel Dretzin tells the story of Warren Jeffs and his rise in the Fundamentalist Church of Christ of Latter Day Saints (FLDS), an offshoot of the mainstream Mormon church.
FLDS members practice polygamy and assign women husbands by divine revelation to the prophet i.e. Warren Jeffs. The church turned into a cult under Jeffs' leadership, and its practices led to concerns from outsiders about underage marriage and statutory rape.
Conclusion
Documentaries are a powerful tool for educating people about different cultures and religions. The documentaries explored in this blog post on the Mormon community show the diversity of experiences and beliefs within one religious group.
From the challenges of modern-day Mormons to the powerful impact of the religion on the world at large, these documentaries provide a window into the life of a Mormon. Whether it is delving into the darker sides of the religion or showcasing the more positive aspects, these documentaries give viewers an inside look at the Mormon community and help to demystify the religion.
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