The Saratov Approach (2013)

I am a religious person, and also a Mormon (or, a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints). I really liked this movie. Many of the reviews here are from people who obviously have an ax to grind against mormonism. If you don't like the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, then don't watch this movie! But, if you are an open minded Christian (or any religious person, for that matter) who would like to see an inspiring movie that is based on a true story, this movie is for you. Yes the film is a little preachy, so if that bothers you then steer clear.The movie is a little slow at parts, but there is plenty of suspense. The main actors do a superb job, especially the Russians.

This movie is almost pure Mormon propaganda. The only interest for those who haven't been brainwashed by the Utah cult is to see how eerily kind Mormons are even when bashing the brains of their kidnappers. I suppose one might also be interested with the way Salt Lake City managed to be transformed, in this whopper, into a major Russian metropolis, but then again the mysterious tablets of the prophet Smith work in very mysterious ways indeed. Seriously though, if you have any other better movie to watch other than this movie, you probably should watch that one. Watching this one all the way to the end would definitely be a waste of time!

I just returned from this movie. I have seen a lot of the LDS-themed movies, and most were OK, but just OK. This? Impressive.It was shot simply. The scenes were simple. Its strength was in that simplicity. That gave the actors rooms to act, to show the gamut of emotions that these two young men struggled with, to see them strengthened by their faith, yet still struggling, and then, slowly, to let us see a bit into the minds of the captors, to see the missionaries with an opportunity to rely on the arm of flesh to try to save themselves, then to be subtly brought around to relying on the arm of God.Lots to think about.

Its hard to come up with the words that adequately describe my feelings during the movie. I laughed, I cried, I said "Amen" during their prayers...I was definitely moved.I encourage all of you to go see the movie. Although it is based off the LDS experience of serving a mission I really think that it appeals to those of any religion. It is a really strong story of faith...faith in Heavenly Father, faith in the power of prayer, faith in your family and friends and church and most of all faith in yourself, Gods plan for you and His ability to provide.It was also very refreshing to talk to one of the missionaries the movie was based on and to hear him say that this movie was pretty spot on in regards to the events that took place.