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I rented this film because of my interest in American history, and especially the somewhat weird story of the Mormons. This movie attempts to make some sense out of how Joseph Smith could turn his "vision" into a major world religion. It first focuses on the troubles the Mormons had in their settlement at Navuoo, Illinois. It portrays the trial of Joseph Smith. Within the course of that trial, Brigham Young stands up to tell of his conversion to Mormonism, and of his belief in the spiritual message of Smith. Then Smith is assassinated, and Young must deal with his own doubts about whether he has been chosen to lead the Mormons to a new land. Despite his grave doubts, he perseveres, and finally has a vision (that Utah is the place for his colony) that gives him confidence in the rightness of his leadership. Later, as crops are destroyed by crickets, he again doubts that he has truly been chosen--however, a miracle occurs, which cements his place in history.

I found the performances to be moving, and the story to be convincing and interesting. I would love to know whether Mormons believe that this is an accurate portrayal. Polygamy is a part of the story, but the reasons why this is central to LDS are not raised. The issue is not emphasized.

I'm sure people stay away from this movie because of its religious subject-matter, but it has a great cast and will hold your interest throughout.

This is biographical filmmaking at its best. Although it's a bit hagiographic, the film conveys entertainingly the outlines of Woodrow Wilson's public life. Alexander Knox portrays Wilson as a person who had great intellect, great passion for public policy, and enormous love for his family. The movie is especially good at bringing to life the characters whom Wilson crossed swords with. Clemenceau and Henry Cabot Lodge are especially vivid.

This movie is in splendid color, and of sufficient length to make it feel like an epic. I highly recommend it.

This is such a terrific movie, it's hard to believe that someone made it. It goes valiantly into the lives of the actual people on the other end of U.S. bombs. It explores issues that the media avoid for fear of turning off the American public. It stars at least two American icons, and portrays them as thieves. The only heroes are the Iraqis who are fighting Sadaam, and hoping for US help, but getting nothing.