This is an excellent adaptation of the story told in the Work and the Glory. No, it's not exactly like the book, but it's been 10 years since I read the book, so it wasn't a problem for me. Most of the acting is excellent--I especially enjoyed Jonathon Scarfe's portrayal of Joseph Smith. In so many LDS movies Joseph is played stiff and pompously, but Scarfe's Joseph is "real." Fans of Truman G. Madsen's "Joseph Smith" lectures will note several direct quotes in this movie. Although this movie will obviously appeal to members of the LDS faith, I don't think it is overly religious and it should appeal to anyone looking for a good historical family film. It takes a hard look at what befell many early members of the LDS faith in a country that was founded on the principals of religious freedom and freedom from persecution.
I have to say that I miss Tiffany Dupont as Lydia McBride. I think her character had more depth than Sera Bastian's. The ending is a bit abrupt and, frankly, strange. Unless you know that Joshua moves to Georgia in book 3 and becomes a "gentleman," it doesn't make any sense. It is obviously a set up for the next movie in the series (out in 2006), but the fire would have been a better ending--IMHO.
Still, I definitely recommend this movie!
I have to say that I miss Tiffany Dupont as Lydia McBride. I think her character had more depth than Sera Bastian's. The ending is a bit abrupt and, frankly, strange. Unless you know that Joshua moves to Georgia in book 3 and becomes a "gentleman," it doesn't make any sense. It is obviously a set up for the next movie in the series (out in 2006), but the fire would have been a better ending--IMHO.
Still, I definitely recommend this movie!