2013, 107 min., PG-13 (for violence)
My Rating=5 Stars
Source: Received a copy from the publisher for an honest review
On what seemed like any other day, Elders Travis Tuttle (Corbin Allred) and Andrew Propst (Maclain Nelson) are approached by Nikolai (Nikita Bogolyubov) to teach a friend. But then the missionaries experience the unimaginable—they are kidnapped, beaten, and held for ransom. While their families, friends, and the world pray for their safe return, Tuttle and Propst are tested physically, emotionally, and most of all—spiritually.
I never did make it to the movie theater when this was out so I was excited to see it come up for review. What an amazing story!
It's one of those movies that I knew the ending before I started watching it, but that didn't make it any less suspenseful. It was interesting to watch the gamut of emotions the missionaries went through--shock, fear, anger, survival, compassion and peace.
Two missionaries, Elder Tuttle and Elder Propst, go to a teaching appointment and are attacked and beaten, then tied up and moved to a remote location. We get to see what's happening with their families during this time as well, which was quite emotional. This is every parent's worst nightmare, no matter how old your children are. The missionaries and families know the ransom can't be paid because then kidnappings would become commonplace. The missionaries quickly figure out what they need to do in order to stay alive.
There are lots of touching moments in this movie, and I cried a few times. Faced with death, the missionaries go from thinking about themselves to praying for the hearts of their kidnappers to be softened. The nation comes together in prayer, regardless of religion, for the safe return of the two missionaries. There is an outpouring of love shown to the families of the missionaries.
This is an inspirational movie and there is some humor in it as well. I enjoyed this movie a lot and will definitely watch it again and again. I recommend The Saratov Approach to everyone!
Here's an interview with the missionaries regarding their ordeal:
3 comments:
I have heard so many good things about this movie....I'm still a little nervous to watch it. Going to have to wait till all my nieces and nephews are home from their missions first :). Great review!
Paij, There are parts of the movie that are hard to watch and it can definitely make someone nervous for any loved ones serving missions, but the overall message is incredible!
This DVD is on its way to me for review. I'm eager to see it yet scared at the same time.
Post a Comment