.....young men and their love for Jesus Christ, family, church (and, sometimes, each other) is near enthralling....and watchable again and again.
A "Realistic Primer" (in the film's beginning) of the daily lives of Young Couples (male, Mormon Companions) on a Mission. In this story, we're introduced to a dorm-like setting of a simple, unadorned double room, with basic kitchen. We watch as the Companions (always staying together, as a pair) are introduced to their new commitments and goals, their rules of conduct, and submission of required progress reports. Everything arranged for them....everything with a purpose.
(( NOTE: We learn, in the Special Features section of this DVD, that Writer/Director, Jon Garcia, was a neophyte (newbie) to things Mormon....and had to "study up" on his subject (unlike C. Jay Cox, the EX-Mormon and Director of 2003's "Latter Days". ))
OUR CAST OF ACTORS (only the primaries):
- Actor Nick Ferrucci, as R. J. Smith. (I call him: "He Who Bringeth Out Joy"). Playing a young 20-year old Man on a Mission (2 years long), we follow him from film beginning to end. And at the start he informs us: "Mormon Faith truly is a benefactor of wholesomeness." BUT...the question later becomes: can R. J. stick to that belief? At any rate, here is a good time to point out that he is our Hug-Guy--some Accomplishments deserve one! And if there is any such thing as a "Light-Hearted" Mormon Missionary, R .J. often comes close. You'll recognize this later on as he backtalks his Companion, Chris, in an effort to get him to "lighten up" and into a better mood.
- Actor Benjamin Farmer, as Chris Merril. (I call him: "He Who Maketh the First Move"). As R. J.s Mormon Companion, and Senior Elder, Chris has been on other missions (there, perhaps, is the rub). A sometimes fervent young man, Elder Chris is our Serious one. But, it won't take you long to realize that things have begun to rankle this Missionary. He's begun "to question".
- Actor Brian Allard, as Rodney. (I call him: "He Who Enlightenth Our Lives"). Plays a pot-smoking, ex-Iraq war vet, with much of a PTSD personality (or maybe not....he could be our sanest character). Despite his truly horrible experience in that war zone, he will have you absolutely rolling off your seats laughing when he is at his best. He's lovable...he's understanding. And frankly, he could be the best thing which happens to our R. J. and Chris.
Despite all we learn about the Mormon Religion (and it's not always Christ-like), make no mistake about what I say next: ....THIS IS, AT ITS ROOT, A LOVE STORY BETWEEN TWO MEN. And so, as the story edges to its end, we find R. J. experiencing increasingly caring thoughts (and concerns) for his withdrawn Companion, Chris. Which then leads to a series of Notable Events:
- A diner table discussion, between our Companions, of R. J.s concern over Chris slackening off....resulting in a surprise, Hand-Touching-Hand moment. Which then leads to:
- An accusation of "Faggotry" against them....resulting in a fight by R. J. in protecting themselves. Which then leads to:
- Bruised knuckles....resulting in Hand-Holding, in the applying of an ice pack (a nice little moment). Which then leads to:
- Exhaustion and early drop off into sleep by Chris....leaving R. J. to prepare for bed, say his prayers and, then, to gaze at a sleeping Chris, before turning out the light. For me, this is THE point at which I knew Love existed between them. We can see it in R. J.s face....we can see it in his eyes. It is "The Defining Moment".
This film also contains an absolutely heart-rending denouement (outcome) scene between R. J. and his church Stake President. It is one of the strongest performances you will see by a young actor. While it will tear at your heart....it is NOT an apology scene and is extremely well written.....leaving us the possibility of hope for our two young men. Will the moments later Final Scene confirm that for us?
Memorable Moments: A Bus-ride Kiss. In fact, every kiss these actors bring to one another....seems real...seems meant. How rare!
PS--Production values are quite high for this Indie Film. Particular mention is deserved for the wonderful film score, music and lyrics. Made up of very simple piano, guitar and vocal harmonics, this score will absolutely grab you. A musical standout for me was the near film end "Coda of Discovery" (they are found out).
****
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