Films about Mormon women often delve into the complexities, challenges, and unique lifestyles associated with the Latter-day Saints (LDS) community. These films can explore themes of faith, identity, rebellion, and belonging, portraying Mormon women in various lights—from devout followers to those questioning or challenging their faith. Whether these movies are based on true stories or are fictional narratives, they offer viewers insight into the experiences of women within this distinct religious culture.
“Sister Wives”, 2010
Director: Tim Gibbons, Genéa Gaudet, Adam Hirsch
Although not a film, this reality TV series provides a lengthy and detailed look into the lives of a polygamous family. The show focuses on Kody Brown and his four wives, exploring the dynamics of their relationships, their faith as part of a fundamentalist offshoot of mainstream Mormonism, and the challenges they face living a polygamous lifestyle in America.
Starring: Meri Brown, Kody Brown, Christine Brown, Janelle Brown, Robyn Sullivan Jessop Brown, Tamron Hall, Sukanya Krishnan, Andrea Canning, Aurora Sullivan-Brown, Danielle Tumminio;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: unknown genre;
Age: 18+;
Rating: IMDB: 4,5;
More information about the film “Sister Wives” on the website imdb.com
“States of Grace”, 2005
Director: Richard Dutcher
This film tells the story of various characters including a pair of Mormon missionaries and a tough, inner-city preacher who saves the life of one of the missionaries during a drive-by shooting. Although the focus is broadly on several characters, the lives of LDS women, their struggles, faith, and resilience are woven into the broader narrative, offering insight into the diverse experiences within the LDS community.
Starring: Ignacio Serricchio, Lucas Fleischer, Lamont Stephens, Rachel Emmers, Jo-sei Ikeda, J.J. Boone, Eli Chatman, Desean Terry, Jeffrey Scott Kelly, John Pentecost, Pete Jackson, Rege Lewis, Danny Socorro Martinez, Mack-b, Samantha Klein, Allen Maldonado, Aiyani Mersai, Adam Conger, Brett Granstaff, Damien Xavier Johnson, Michael May, Gaby Medina, Ashley Sardonia, Linda Bon, Allison Evans, Jeff Parkin, Grant Linscott, Rod Santiano, Jason Mendenhall, Amanda Kuhn, Shanalyna C. Palmer, Sally Wells Cook, Young Hong, Enrique Almeda, Richard Franklin, Wilma Baker, Suzie Blandon, Ashley Derakhshanian, Annabelle Furgerson, Luisa Vitor, Randy Tobin, Natasha Desai, Julia Silverman, Jennifer De Martino, Nate Boyer, Melanie Specht, Jennifer Freeman, Tammy Filor, Rodney Lloyd Scott, Gina Piccinonno, Janee Amber, Amy Willmore, Monica Leavitt, Natalie Scow, Gale Tanner, Kristen Engebretsen, Sara Hodges, Gabby San Paolo, BreeAnn Turner, Chandra Corey, Fab, Aaron Boyd, Tom Magner, Maddy Lasry, Tia Marie Battle, Janice Power, Maria De La Torre, Juan Carlos de la Torre, Jim Ephraim Bizuela, Benjamin Dalton, Karyna Shackelford, Crystal Martinez, Nafeesa Monroe;
Production year: 2005;
Genre: drama;
MPAA rating: pg13;
Duration: 128 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,8;
More information about the film “States of Grace” on the website imdb.com
“Charly”, 1968
Director: Ralph Nelson
Adapted from a popular LDS novel, this romantic drama follows the story of Charly, a free-spirited woman who meets a devout Mormon man. Their relationship challenges their beliefs and expectations, particularly focusing on Charly's journey and transformation as she engages with the Mormon faith, highlighting the intersections of love, religion, and personal growth from a woman's perspective.
Starring: Cliff Robertson, Claire Bloom, Lilia Skala, Leon Janney, Ruth White, Dick Van Patten, Edward McNally, Barney Martin, William Dwyer, Dan Morgan;
Production year: 1968;
Genre: science fiction, drama, melodrama;
MPAA rating: pg;
Duration: 103 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,9;
More information about the film “Charly” on the website imdb.com
These films and shows, while varying in genre and approach, collectively contribute to a nuanced understanding of Mormon women's lives. They highlight the diversity of experience within the LDS community, from the deeply faithful to the questioning, from the traditional to the unconventional, offering audiences both within and outside Mormonism a glimpse into these women's worlds.
In conclusion, films about Mormon women offer unique and profound insights into the complexities, challenges, and triumphs faced by women within the Mormon faith. These films, while varied in their storytelling approaches, collectively celebrate the strength, resilience, and diversity of Mormon women's experiences. From historical dramas to contemporary narratives, they explore themes of faith, identity, and community, contributing to a richer understanding of the multifaceted lives of Mormon women. By bringing these stories to the forefront, the films not only shed light on the specificities of Mormon culture but also speak to universal struggles and joys, marking an important contribution to the broader landscape of cinema. Through their portrayal of Mormon women, these films challenge stereotypes, inspire empathy, and underscore the importance of representation in media – all while providing audiences with deeply engaging and thought-provoking cinematic experiences.
